Hong Kong Bookstores Raided, Writer Links Actions to Chief Executive's Re-election Anxiety

Hong Kong authorities have arrested five individuals following raids on two independent bookstores, with police citing the alleged display and sale of "seditious" materials. The bookstores were reportedly searched on the order of the Hong Kong National Security Department.

One of the books targeted was "Red Flower Blooming: Identity and Belonging in the Era of Xi Jinping." Writer Yan Ze-ya suggested that such actions, including the recent assault on geopolitical analyst Yaita Akio by individuals from Hong Kong, might not be directives from Beijing but rather "self-initiated" extreme political maneuvers by Hong Kong officials seeking to impress Beijing.

Yan Ze-ya posited on Facebook that these actions could be driven by Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee's anxiety over his upcoming re-election in June 2027. Lee is reportedly eager to secure Xi Jinping's support, especially after a previous incident, the "Hung Fuk Court" affair, which may have damaged his standing with Beijing. The writer argued that Lee might be overcompensating to demonstrate his capabilities and loyalty.

The writer also noted that in authoritarian regimes, subordinates may act preemptively to protect themselves, compete, or gain credit, potentially undertaking actions not explicitly ordered by the top leadership. The lack of transparency in such regimes makes it difficult to ascertain the exact truth behind these events.