Chan Ho-tin Puts His Case Over Ban To Exco Panel

The founder of the banned Hong Kong National Party, Chan Ho-tin, appeared before an Exco panel on Monday to appeal against the government's move to outlaw his pro-independence group.

The hearing lasted for about 90 minutes.

Speaking to reporters afterwards, Chan criticised the panel for not accepting his request to change the hearing time, saying this resulted in his counsel not being able to attend.

“As I am not a legal professional, I can’t fully represent myself in this case. I feel my legal rights were deprived,” he said.

“My lawyers had sought the rescheduling of this hearing, but the committee refused our application and they can’t provide sufficient reasons.”

He said he had asked for a change in the meeting time as soon as he was given notice of the appeal hearing last month.

A spokesman for Exco refused to comment on this, saying everything about the proceedings is confidential.

Chan said he couldn't disclose the matters discussed during the hearing. He said he is now waiting for a written response from the panel, but doesn't know when this will come.

The government banned the National Party last year, saying it was a threat to national security.

It has been reported that three Exco members – Joseph Yam, Martin Liao and CK Chow – were chosen to hear Chan's appeal.