The Hong Kong Federation of Journalists (HKFJ) issued a statement on Aug 14, noting that it has taken note of a recent factually inaccurate statement by the Foreign Correspondents' Club, Hong Kong (FCC). The statement maliciously hyped up the so-called "online and physical harassment" faced by the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) and its members, and made unfounded accusations against the public opinion environment of the HKSAR. The HKFJ expresses strong dissatisfaction and stern condemnation over this.
The HKFJ pointed out that for a long time, the HKJA has worn the cloak of a "press organisation" while in reality being a political group deeply colluding with forces that destabilise Hong Kong. From openly and indiscriminately issuing press credentials to provide cover for rioters during the 2019 social unrest, to continuously smearing National Security Law in its annual reports year after year, and the behind-closed-doors dealings in its leadership elections, the HKJA's actions have long departed from professionalism, and it has no representativeness or credibility to speak of.
The FCC, acting in cahoots with the HKJA, has repeatedly bolstered and cheered it on, maliciously attacking Hong Kong's press freedom and rule-of-law environment in an attempt to divert attention and interfere with the HKSAR's rule of law. This is precisely the best proof of the HKJA colluding with external forces to destabilise Hong Kong.
The HKFJ stated that Hong Kong is a society governed by the rule of law. Today, with clear red lines drawn by the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, if the HKJA continues to engage in political activities unrelated to its nature as a trade union, or even commits unlawful acts, it is only natural that law enforcement agencies will hold it accountable in accordance with the law. The HKFJ will absolutely not tolerate any organisation using the name of journalism as a cover to act as a tool for external forces to destabilise Hong Kong, endanger national security, and undermine Hong Kong's prosperity and stability.
The HKFJ strongly urges the FCC to comply with Hong Kong laws and immediately stop spreading false statements and all political manoeuvres that harm national security and Hong Kong's interests; otherwise, it will inevitably reap what it sows. The HKFJ hopes that the public will keep their eyes open and not be misled or deceived by inflammatory remarks with ulterior motives.
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