Spare Reverend Chu, Ask Fellow Occupy Founders

Two of the three founders of the Occupy Central campaign who were convicted of two public nuisance-related charges on Tuesday have asked the judge not to impose a custodial sentence on their ailing colleague, Reverend Chu Yiu-ming.

Gerald McCoy SC, for Benny Tai and Chan Kin-man, told the District Court during mitigation on Tuesday afternoon that both his clients “don’t care” what punishment is coming their way, and their only care is for Chu, 75, not to be put behind bars because he’s suffering from a number of medical conditions.

All three were found guilty of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance for organising the mass pro-democracy protests in 2014, but only Tai and Chan were convicted of a second charge of inciting others to cause a public nuisance. Chu was acquitted of the second charge.

McCoy added that neither Tai nor Chan will submit any mitigation letters, saying their cases aren’t about themselves. He went on to say that the strongest mitigating factor is their underlying motivation to fight for genuine democracy through civil disobedience, while consistently advocating peaceful and non-violent action.

Chu then addressed the court from the dock, telling the packed courtroom that he never expected to be in this position in his old age. He said it’s “ironic” because he’s now at the “peak” of his pastoral life.

“I’ve been used by God my whole life hoping to spread love and peace in the world”, Chu said in a loud, firm voice, clutching his script.

Some supporters started crying as he spoke about his personal experiences and his faith.

As the reverend recounted how Tai asked him to join the Occupy movement, the law professor broke into tears, burying his face in his arms.

Earlier, the lawyer for legislator Shiu Ka-chun – who was convicted of two charges – asked the court for a community service order. The counsel said Shiu is suffering from serious diabetes which is affecting his eyesight.

He added that his client had only incited a “peaceful protest” and couldn’t have foreseen that the 79-day protest would last that long.

A large crowd of around 200 people clapped and shouted slogans in support of the Occupy Nine as they left the courtroom after the proceedings were adjourned to Wednesday morning for more mitigation and sentencing. All the defendants were freed on bail for the evening.

Speaking outside the court, Chan would only say that he's 'disappointed' with the verdicts, but will refrain from commenting further until they are sentenced.

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