There are widespread concerns about Hong Kong’s new leader-to-be, John Lee
The G7 has expressed its concerns about the legitimacy of the selection process and what it will mean for the people of Hong Kong.
“The current nomination process and resulting appointment are a stark departure from the aim of universal suffrage and further erode the ability of Hong Kongers to be legitimately represented. We are deeply concerned about this steady erosion of political and civil rights and Hong Kong’s autonomy.”
Activist in exile, Francis Hui says that there is no system in place that gives people of Hong Kong a chance to participate in democracy.
“We have never actually had true democracy to elect our own leader. There has never been a system developed for our people to vote” Hui says.
“John Lee didn’t even have to please anyone in Hong Kong, because those are not the people who are going to vote for him. It’s Beijing and its supporters.”
Naming it a ‘puppet show’, Human Rights Watch says the so-called election has been an expensive one-man show.
“The Hong Kong government has budgeted HK$228 million (US$29 million) for this one-man “election.” There are “election” posters; there is even an “election” “forum”—featuring only Lee— without a live audience.”
Concerns over rights and freedoms
The current National Security Law “dismantled the city’s freedoms” according to Human Rights Watch.
“It has decapitated Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement, arrested hundreds of protesters and others for exercising their freedom of speech, shut down outspoken media, civil society groups, and businesses, set up a hotline to encourage people to inform on each other, and otherwise create a climate of fear.”
Though the international community continues to show concern, Hui says it’s time to do more than condemn Beijing.
“It’s really time for us to go further beyond just condemnation and to do something to contain the authoritarian practice of the CCP.”
Lee has been outspoken in supporting the abuse against the Uyghrys in Xinjiang and is well-known for his hardline approach to freedom of speech.
Bigger challenges
Hong Kong is a financial hub attempting to relaunch itself after several years of political upheaval.
However, many people are now fleeing the country, dissatisfied with the administration.
“They really persist on their way to have zero cases in the city, which makes the international community, especially business people worry about the future of Hong Kong to continue to be the international financial hub.” says Hui.
“Continuously we’ll see more people being involved in this migration wave because of the political situation in Hong Kong.”
Future of democracy in Hong Kong
Hui says it’s difficult to know whether democracy could be restored.
“What we can do is to continue to spread words and to raise awareness and to push for any action by foreign countries.”
“I believe people on the ground will continue to use their strength and their courage to continue to fight for freedom and to stand for our values.”
In Short:
– Two people were killed when a man drove into pedestrians and stabbed a security guard during Yom Kippur.
– The suspect, wearing an explosive-like vest, was shot dead by police; two further arrests followed.
Two people were killed on Thursday when a man drove a car into pedestrians and stabbed a security guard outside a synagogue during Yom Kippur ceremonies, UK police confirmed.
This was a vile terrorist attack that attacked Jews, because they are Jews.
Antisemitism is a hatred that is rising, once again. Britain must defeat it, once again.
To every Jewish person in this country: I promise that I will do everything in my power to guarantee you the… pic.twitter.com/DAd9OaGNMc
The suspect, reportedly wearing a vest resembling an explosive device, was shot dead by police after they responded to the incident at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Northern England.
British authorities declared the attack a terrorist incident. The police suggested they were aware of the attacker’s identity but could not verify it at that moment. Following the attack, two additional arrests were made.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, having interrupted his participation in a European summit to address the situation, pledged enhanced security measures for Jewish communities, noting rising antisemitism in the UK since the conflict escalation following Hamas’s October 7 assault on Israel.
We are deeply concerned by reports of a violent attack at a synagogue in Manchester today. We unequivocally condemn this act of violence. pic.twitter.com/niGBdI4heB
Starmer expressed solidarity with the Jewish community, acknowledging their fears and confirming his commitment to counteract rising hatred.
Injured Victims
As the situation unfolded, three other individuals remained in serious condition.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as police evacuated vulnerable individuals from the synagogue, where many attendees were in traditional dress.
The prompt actions of security staff and law enforcement were credited with preventing further harm. King Charles expressed his deep shock and sorrow regarding the incident.
Cyber security evolution prompts redefinition of critical infrastructure in Asia Pacific amid rising digital threats.
In Short:
– Cyber security incidents in Asia Pacific redefine critical infrastructure, expanding its scope beyond just industrial machinery.
– New strategies emphasise visibility to protect crucial sectors like banking, finance, and telecommunications from cyber threats.
The rise in cyber security incidents in Asia Pacific is reshaping the definition and protection of critical infrastructure. New digital and operational technology risks are prompting stakeholders to reconsider conventional beliefs that critical infrastructure is primarily industrial machinery behind high fences.
Michael Fisher from Garland Technology discusses this evolving landscape. Critical infrastructure now encompasses essential services such as banking, finance, and telecommunications, expanding beyond traditional definitions.
The convergence of IT and operational technology (OT) networks increases cyber security risks. Many OT services were not designed with cyber security in mind, leaving them vulnerable to cyber attacks. Industries most at risk include telecommunications, banking, finance, and utilities, where any disruption can significantly impact society.
Increased Visibility
Fisher highlights that traditional cyber security alone is insufficient to secure these infrastructures. Effective protection requires a new approach focused on visibility. Garland Technology’s mission is to provide visibility to upstream cyber security platforms, eliminating blind spots.
Governments and businesses must recognise their roles in combatting cyber threats. Australia’s Security of Critical Infrastructure Act is a step towards increasing corporate responsibility in recognising critical infrastructure and ensuring compliance with security measures.