Almost 5,000 people marched through Hong Kong on New Year’s Day in protest against the government’s attempt to disqualify four pro-democracy lawmakers, according to a police estimate. Hong Kong’s semi-autonomous government has started legal proceedings against four recently elected legislators, who altered their swearing-in oaths to stage a protest against the Chinese government in Beijing. Their demonstration included flaunting a banner that read “Hong Kong is not China”, which used language that some have claimed was derogatory Japanese slang.
The legislators belong to Youngspiration, a burgeoning political party that challenges Beijing’s interference in Hong Kong’s affairs.
The party’s stated aim is a referendum on Hong Kong’s right to self-determination in 2020.
Protesters waved flags reading “Hong Kong independence” and held placards in support of the foursome, according to Associated Press.
Full Article: Hong Kong protest: Thousands march against Beijing.