Gov't refusal to release banned book list after bookstore arrests is 'abuse of power,' Christian NGO says

Hong Kong authorities' refusal to disclose a list of banned books constitutes an "abuse of power" and erodes the rule of law, according to a conservative Christian NGO. The Society for Truth and Light issued this statement after law enforcement raided independent bookstores and arrested their staff last month.

Choi Chi-sum, the secretary general of the Society for Truth and Light, asserted on Friday that the government's actions are unacceptable. He highlighted that the refusal to provide the list of prohibited publications prevents the public from understanding what content is deemed illegal under the national security law.

"The government's refusal to release the list of banned books is an abuse of power and undermines the rule of law," Choi stated. He added that the authorities' actions have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among citizens and bookstore operators.

Last month, police arrested several employees from independent bookstores, including the prominent Causeway Bay Books, which was previously raided in 2016. The arrests were reportedly linked to the sale of books deemed seditious under the national security law. The government has maintained that its actions are necessary to safeguard national security.

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The government's refusal to release the list of banned books is an abuse of power and undermines the rule of law.