Hong Kong Riot Cops Clash With Protesters Following Rally For China’s Oppressed Muslims

Riot police in Hong Kong forcefully broke up a pro-democracy rally in solidarity with millions of Uighurs – Chinese Muslims living under oppressive conditions, many in so-called ‘re-education camps.’

Around 1,000 protesters gathered near Hong Kong’s harbor, waving pro-Uighur posters and flags – in what appears to be the latest grievance between the pro-democracy movement and China’s influence. While largely peaceful, police used pepper spray to disperse the protesters. In response, protesters threw glass bottles and rocks.

“We shall not forget those who share a common goal with us, our struggle for freedom and democracy and the rage against the Chinese Communist Party,” said one protester holding a megaphone.

China runs Hong Kong under a “one country, two systems” model that grants the financial capital expanded freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland. Many Hong Kongers view China as encroaching on these freedoms and fear mainland policies will come to the city.

What started as a movement against Chinese meddling has morphed into broader calls for greater democracy and police accountability following months of often violent protests.

The huge scale of the surveillance and prison system in Xinjiang has been closely watched in Hong Kong, with many fearful that similar measures could befall the city. –DW

The United nations and human rights organizations have widely condemned China’s treatment of Uighurs. Approximately 1 million have been forced to live in internment camps in the northwestern Xinjiang region. While Beijing calls them “vocational training centers” required to combat Islamic terrorism, those who have escaped tell shocking tales of torture and control.

“The Chinese government are control freaks; they can’t stand any opinions they disagree with,” a civil servant and protester named Kathrine told AFP before riot police moved in.

“In Xinjiang they are doing what they are doing because they have the power to do so. When they take over Hong Kong, they will do the same.”