Young People Getting More Desperate: Shiu Ka-chun

Social welfare sector lawmaker Shiu Ka-chun, who was released from prison on Thursday after serving his eight-month jail sentence over his role in the pro-democracy Occupy protests five years ago, said he is seeing more desperation and hopelessness among the young people in the current anti-government agitation.

"What is happening is really heartbreaking. I have never been so heavy-hearted," he said. "Actually I saw largest count of protesters hitting the street. They risk their future, physical injury and jail times. Many of them are youngsters, many of them are first time."

"I saw hopelessness, desperation, fear, anger and also violence .. and abuse of power," said Shiu. But the lawmaker said he sees the protesters as a part of the solution rather than the problem.

He said no individual can provide a solution for the current situation and it has been a collective effort by the society.

Shiu also told RTHK's Janice Wong that what is needed is a political solution and government should not put police and people into troubled waters.