Former Pro-Democracy Politician Ted Hui Granted Asylum in Australia Amid Ongoing Hong Kong Crackdown

Former Pro-Democracy Politician Ted Hui Granted Asylum in Australia

Adelaide, Australia — Ted Hui, a former pro-democracy politician from Hong Kong, has been granted asylum in Australia, marking a significant milestone in his ongoing struggle for safety and freedom. This week, the Australian government issued a protection visa not only to Hui but also to his wife, children, and parents.

In a heartfelt Facebook post on Saturday, Hui expressed his gratitude, stating, “I sincerely thank the government of Australia — both present and former — for recognizing our need for asylum and granting us this protection.” Speaking to the ABC, he shared the relief felt by his family, saying, “From this point on, we can make longer life plans.”

Hui’s journey has been fraught with challenges. After participating in the massive pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong in 2019, he faced arrest and intimidation from authorities. He fled to Australia four years ago, where he has since settled in Adelaide. Reflecting on his past, Hui recalled the emotional weight of declaring his exile while in Europe, stating, “I burst into tears knowing that I might not be able to go back home again.”

Despite the relief of receiving asylum, Hui remains a vocal critic of the Hong Kong and Beijing authorities, who have issued bounties of HK$1 million (approximately AUD 200,000) for his capture. He downplayed the threat of these bounties, noting, “A bounty is something that doesn’t affect me in my daily life… but, of course, you can’t take away the possibility of someone trying to kidnap me.”

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has not commented directly on Hui’s case but reiterated concerns about the erosion of rights and freedoms in Hong Kong. A spokesperson stated, “Australia is deeply concerned by Hong Kong’s widespread application of national security laws to repress civil society and prosecute pro-democracy advocates.”

Hui’s asylum comes amid a broader crackdown on dissent in Hong Kong, where the national security law has been used to silence opposition. He urged the Australian government to take further action, calling for support for other activists still imprisoned in Hong Kong, including tycoon Jimmy Lai.

“Australia must do more to rescue them and to speak up for their humanity,” Hui emphasized. “Its stance matters internationally, and its protection of Hongkongers sets a precedent for other democracies.”

As the world watches, Hui’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights in Hong Kong, and the vital role that nations like Australia can play in providing refuge for those who dare to stand against oppression.