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Jailed, unseated, exiled: Hong Kong opposition party shuts its doors

13 Sept 12:45 Key points summarised by AI

Hong Kong's Civic Party, a prominent pro-democracy opposition group, officially disbanded after 17 years, citing an untenable political reality.
The party faced severe repression under China's national security law, leading to members being jailed, elected officials unseated, and a former lawmaker declared a wanted fugitive.
Co-founder Alan Leong attributed the closure to Hong Kong's harsh political climate, financial constraints, and low morale, acknowledging forces beyond their control.
Once dedicated to promoting democratisation and universal suffrage, the party was ultimately labeled an 'anti-China destabilizing organization' by Beijing.
The disbandment underscores the profound impact of Beijing's 'patriots' doctrine, which systematically removes politically disloyal individuals from Hong Kong's public life.

19 Oct 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.