By Kelly Ho and Rachel Wong
https://hongkongfp.com/author/kellyandrachel/
Hong Kong police have rejected an application to hold a pro-democracy march on China’s National Day next Thursday, citing coronavirus public gathering restrictions and the threat of “violent acts.”
The Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) – a coalition of advocacy groups – proposed to march from East Point Road in Causeway Bay to Chater Road in Central on October 1, coinciding with the Mid-Autumn Festival. The force issued the letter of objection on Friday.
Police said public gatherings of more than four people were not allowed under current government coronavirus social distancing rules, set to expire next Friday.
The force said it had reason to believe the march would increase the risk of contracting the virus among participants: “It will also be a major threat to the life and health of the general public, endangering public health and the rights of others,” the letter of objection read.
It also mentioned past events organised by the CHRF that descended into violence, as some protesters blocked roads and hurled bricks as well as petrol bombs.
The force said the proposed route was close to “high-risk buildings,” including the police headquarters, the High Court and various MTR stations.
https://hongkongfp.com/2020/09/25/breaking-hong-kong-police-refuse-to-allow-mass-march-citing-covid-19-restrictions-and-threat-of-violent-acts/