Hong Kong Democracy Activist’s London Reunion May Be Cut Short Amid Immigration Concerns

Former pro-democracy lawmaker Wu Chi-wai has finally reunited with his family in London after more than five years in a Hong Kong prison. However, his joyous reunion may be short-lived due to concerns over his immigration status.

Wu, the former chairman of Hong Kong’s once-largest opposition party, was one of 47 activists charged in 2021 under a Beijing-imposed security law that crushed the city’s democracy movement. He was sentenced in 2024 to four years and five months in prison for conspiracy to commit subversion over his role in an unofficial primary election.

After his release last month, Wu’s first goal was to meet his family, who are now based in the U.K. However, he faced challenges entering the country due to his criminal record. He communicated with Hong Kong’s British consulate in advance and was eventually allowed to enter, but with a seven-day immigration bail. This means he will be removed from the U.K. on Wednesday, cutting short family plans to spend months together.

Wu expressed concerns that his immigration record could affect his future travels and hopes the Home Office can reverse its decision and extend his stay. He also fears that other Hong Kongers could face similar border issues.

Wu’s reunion with his family is a bittersweet moment, as he has denied seeking asylum in the U.K. and has expressed his desire to reunite with his family there. He has also stated that he will not engage in political activities anymore, choosing to focus on his family life.

Under the dramatic political changes in Hong Kong after the introduction of the security law in 2020, many families and young professionals have emigrated to other countries, including Britain. Beijing and Hong Kong authorities insist the security law was necessary for the city’s stability.

U.K. government data shows that over 230,000 Hong Kong residents have secured a special visa that allows them to live and work in the U.K. and apply for permanent residence after five years. More than 9,800 people have been granted settlement.

Wu’s return flight ticket to Hong Kong, originally scheduled for November, has already been changed to Wednesday, not by him. The Home Office and airline did not immediately respond to questions about it.

Wu’s experience highlights the challenges faced by Hong Kongers seeking to reunite with their families in the U.K. Despite the risks, many Hong Kongers continue to seek a better life in Britain, where they can enjoy greater freedoms and security.

Wu’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by individuals and families affected by the security law and its aftermath.

Wu has stated that he will cherish the time he has to reunite with his family and focus on his personal life. He has also expressed concern for the well-being of other Hong Kongers who may face similar challenges.

The changes in Hong Kong reflect the dwindling freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to China’s rule in 1997. Wu’s experience is a testament to the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights in Hong Kong.

Wu’s story is a poignant reminder of the human cost of the security law and its impact on individuals and families. As he navigates his new reality in the U.K., he remains committed to his family and his personal well-being.

Wu’s experience serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by individuals and families affected by the security law and its aftermath.

The Democratic Party that Wu once led has disbanded, like dozens of other civil society groups, citing the political environment among the factors. The changes reflect the dwindling freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to China’s rule in 1997.

Wu has stated that he will not engage in political activities anymore, choosing to focus on his family life. He has also expressed his desire to reunite with his family in the U.K. and hopes to secure a re-entrance to the country.