Agnes Chow rejects return to Hong Kong amidst escalating crackdown
Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Agnes Chow, who recently sought refuge in Canada while on bail, said that she won't return to her homeland. The bold decision comes in the face of an intensified crackdown that severely constrained her freedom, despite a warning from Hong Kong's leader. (AP Photo)
Agnes Chow reveals years of authorities' scrutiny
Chow, speaking from Toronto, opens up about years of relentless scrutiny by authorities. With her passport confiscated, she lived in constant fear, compelled to maintain silence. "I feel like I was forced to stay in such kind of severe environment that I couldn't escape," says Chow, who has resided in Toronto for three months. Considering the political climate in Hong Kong, coupled with concerns about her personal and mental health, she has resolved not to return. (AFP Photo)
Passport confiscated under National Security Law hinders basic freedoms
Chow's release from prison in June 2021, following a sentence for unauthorized assembly, did not grant her freedom. An additional charge of collusion with foreign forces, under China's national security law, led to the confiscation of her passport. This left her movements under scrutiny, causing difficulties in securing employment, renting an apartment, or even opening a bank account. (Reuters Photo)
National Security Law criticized by the West, China asserts stability
The controversial national security law has faced criticism from Western governments as a tool of repression. China, however, insists it has restored stability post-2019 pro-democracy protests. Chow reveals that the fear of imprisonment led to panic attacks, and she was diagnosed with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Meanwhile, Hong Kong authorities permitted her to travel to Toronto for a master's degree program, contingent on a one-day trip to Shenzhen, where she was chaperoned by police officers and compelled to attend a "patriotic" exhibition. (AFP Photo)
Chow denied transit through Japan, forced into flight
Chow's attempts to book a more affordable flight, transiting through Japan, were rejected by the police, forcing her to opt for a direct flight to Toronto. She criticized the national security police for operating outside the legal system in Hong Kong. (AFP Photo)
Police vow pursuit amid warrants for overseas activists
Hong Kong leader John Lee dismissed Chow as a "liar" and lacking integrity, asserting the police's determination to pursue her. Notably, this year, Hong Kong police issued arrest warrants and bounties for eight overseas activists, including Nathan Law and Anna Kwok. (AP Photo)
Agnes Chow's struggle for free speech
Chow hopes her story serves as a reminder of the ongoing suppression in Hong Kong, emphasizing the plight of those imprisoned or unable to speak freely. Dressed in a yellow hoodie, she celebrated her 27th birthday, expressing a desire for physical and mental freedom. (Reuters Photo)
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