Hong Kong Media Overseas raises concerns over alleged intimidation ahead of HKJA election

Hong Kong Media Overseas (HKMO) has expressed significant concerns regarding the recent intimidation tactics allegedly used on the eve of the Hong Kong Journalists Association's (HKJA) annual general meeting and general election.

Numerous members and former members reportedly received anonymous text messages warning of potential infiltration by law enforcement officers at the meeting and urging them to "keep their distance."

This has been perceived as a direct challenge to Hong Kong's legal framework and an affront to the city's press freedom.

Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung responded to the situation by criticizing the HKJA, questioning its credibility and representativeness.

Tang went further to accuse the association of aligning with "black riots" and claimed that some executive committee candidates have financial links to the United States.

These remarks, however, have been met with regret and rebuttal from HKMO, which condemned the statements as unfounded and as deliberate attempts to discredit the HKJA.

HKMO emphasized that the HKJA, founded in 1968, is a longstanding trade union with an international reputation.

It is affiliated with the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the world's largest federation of journalists' unions, representing over 600,000 media workers from 187 organizations across 146 countries.

The IFJ, established in 1953, holds associate membership with UNESCO and represents journalists at the United Nations.

The allegations of intimidation and the subsequent remarks by Tang have raised concerns about the use of public power and the respect for trade union organizations and press freedom in Hong Kong.

HKMO urges the government and related organizations to acknowledge the HKJA's historical and international significance and to ensure the protection of press freedom in the region.