Hong Kong’s anti-graft watchdog has arrested four men for allegedly making online posts or comments to incite others to boycott or cast invalid ballots in the “patriots only” Legislative Council (LegCo) elections on Sunday.
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) apprehended the four men, aged between 37 and 62, on Thursday under the Elections (Corrupt and Illegal Conduct) Ordinance.
The ICAC said it would consult with the Department of Justice on whether to prosecute the arrestees upon finishing its investigation.
Last month, the anti-graft commission charged three people and issued arrest warrants for two others on suspicion of inciting others not to vote in the elections.
Hong Kong authorities said last week that 29 people had been arrested over alleged attempts to sabotage the December 7 race. Most cases involved alleged criminal damage to posters promoting the legislative polls.
The upcoming LegCo polls are the second legislative elections since Hong Kong revamped its electoral system in 2021 to ensure only “patriots” would hold power in the city. The overhaul reduced democratic representation in the legislature, tightened control of elections, and introduced a pro-Beijing vetting panel to select candidates.
The government said the changes would ensure the city’s stability and prosperity. However, the alterations also prompted international condemnation, as they make it nearly impossible for pro-democracy candidates to stand.
Campaign activities and election promotions, such as government-organised forums, were temporarily suspended last week due to the deadly fire in Wang Fuk Court, which has claimed at least 159 lives.
Chief Executive John Lee cleared rumours of an election delay on Tuesday, saying the city must hold the polls as scheduled because a new legislature will help the government in its relief work to rebuild the community.
