This archive report was first published on 6 December 2019.
December 6, 2019
Millions of Hong Kong residents have taken to the streets in protests demanding greater democratic freedoms and police accountability, sparking the most significant challenge to Beijing's rule since the city's 1997 handover.
Pro-democracy candidates won a landslide in local council elections, shattering government claims that a 'silent majority' opposed to the movement.
However, activists warn that anger is building once more after Chief Executive Carrie Lam and Beijing ruled out any further concessions.
"We hope the government can cherish peace in the past few weeks and will not mistake the people as giving up on their demands," Jimmy Sham, from the Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF), told reporters.
"This is the last chance given by the people to Carrie Lam," he added.
The CHRF has been the main umbrella group behind record-breaking marches, advocating non-violence and pushing for five key demands, including an independent inquiry into the police and fully free elections.
Despite the pro-establishment drubbing, Lam has remained steadfast in her opposition to further concessions, and Beijing has stuck by her even as she languishes with record low approval ratings.
The police force's reputation has also taken a hammering, with a new poll showing a record disapproval rating of 40 percent.
