Hong Kong Charges Two Men for Inciting Election Boycott, Blank Votes

Hong Kong's Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has taken further action against perceived electoral subversion, charging two men accused of inciting others to boycott or cast blank votes in last year's legislative elections. The charges, brought under the Elections (Corrupt and Illegal Conduct) Ordinance, target alleged breaches occurring between the nomination period and polling day. This move underscores the authorities' commitment to enforcing election laws in the wake of significant political changes in the city.

The two men, identified as security guards aged 38 and 63, have been released on bail pending their court appearance. One is accused of inciting invalid votes, while the other faces charges for inciting non-participation. These actions are linked to social media activities, including comments on news reports and the sharing of posts by overseas-based activist Alan Keung, who himself faces charges for similar offenses and has a bounty on his head.

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It is an offense to incite people not to vote or cast an invalid vote.

This latest development is part of a wider pattern of legal actions related to electoral conduct. Previously, three individuals were charged for sharing posts from Keung and another activist, with one already receiving a suspended jail sentence. The low voter turnout in the 2025 "patriots only" legislative polls, despite a slight increase from 2021, and a record percentage of invalid votes, highlight the ongoing sensitivities surrounding electoral participation and dissent in Hong Kong. The ICAC's actions signal a continued effort by authorities to maintain electoral order and deter any form of opposition or protest related to the electoral process.

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calling on people not to vote.