Umbrella protesters face charges one day after new hong kong leader selected

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Umbrella Protesters Face Charges One Day After New Hong Kong Leader Selected

Hong Kong, June 1 - Just one day after the city's new leader, John Lee, was selected, hundreds of protesters who took part in the 2014 Umbrella Movement are facing charges related to their participation in the pro-democracy demonstrations.

The charges, which include rioting, unlawful assembly, and obstructing police officers, were announced by the Hong Kong police on Tuesday, sparking outrage among pro-democracy supporters.

The Umbrella Movement, which began in September 2014, was a series of protests that demanded greater democratic reforms in Hong Kong. The movement was marked by clashes between protesters and police, with many protesters using umbrellas to protect themselves from tear gas and pepper spray.

The charges against the protesters come as a blow to the pro-democracy movement, which has been struggling to regain momentum since the protests ended in 2015. The movement's leaders, including Joshua Wong and Alex Chow, have been arrested and charged with various offenses.

Lee, the new leader of Hong Kong, has pledged to improve the city's economy and promote national security, but has also faced criticism from pro-democracy groups for his lack of commitment to democratic reforms.

The charges against the protesters have been widely condemned by human rights groups and pro-democracy supporters, who argue that they are an attempt to silence dissent and suppress the pro-democracy movement.

"This is a clear attempt to intimidate and silence the pro-democracy movement," said a spokesperson for the Hong Kong Civil Human Rights Front. "We demand that the government drop the charges and respect the rights of protesters to peaceful assembly and free speech."

The charges are expected to be heard in court later this year, and could potentially lead to lengthy prison sentences for those convicted.

In the meantime, pro-democracy supporters are planning to hold a series of rallies and protests to demand greater democratic reforms and to show their support for the protesters facing charges.

The situation in Hong Kong remains tense, with many fearing that the government's actions will only serve to further polarize the city and undermine its fragile democracy.