Hong Kong's pro-democracy lawmakers threaten to quit

Hong Kong's pro-democracy lawmakers said Monday that y would resign en masse from city's legislative council if Beijing disqualifies any of m.

anuncement from 19 opposition lawmakers came amid unconfirmed reports that National People's Congress Standing Committee (NPCSC), which will meet on Tuesday and Wednesday, was preparing to disqualify four legislators.

Local media reports, including from South China Morning Post, said that four legislators would be accused of filibustering meetings and violating ir oaths of office.

convener of pro-democracy camp, Wu Chi-wai, said that any move by Beijing to disqualify legislators and prevent m from doing ir duties would be “ridiculous.”

“It reflects y are ruthless, and y disrespect Basic Law,” he said, referring to mini-constitution that governs semi-automous territory of Hong Kong after former British colony was handed back to China in 1997.

Lawmaker Dennis Kwok said that disqualifications would be a “serious departure” from original spirit of “one country, two systems” framework under which Hong Kong enjoys freedoms t found in mainland China.

“It seems like those in power cant tolerate opposition anymore,” said Kwok.

“y’re amant in getting rid of all opposition in Legislative Council, and y are amant in getting rid of all Democrats.”

four legislators who are said to be on verge of disqualification were barred from seeking reelection earlier this year.

After legislative election was postponed, four h decided to stay on as lawmakers for ar year.