HK protesters plead for US help

Hong Kong, October 14 

Tens of thousands of mostly young pro-democracy activists rallied in Hong Kong on Monday in the first legal protest since the introduction of colonial-era emergency laws and pleaded for help from the United States.

They chanted “Fight for Freedom, Fight for Hong Kong” as they gathered peacefully near central government offices in the Admiralty district of the Chinese-ruled city only hours after police said violent protests had escalated to a “life-threatening level”.

A small bomb exploded and a policeman was stabbed on Sunday night, the latest violence in four months of unrest in which police have responded to petrol bombs and rocks with tear gas, rubber bullets, water cannon and sometimes live rounds.

Emergency laws introduced on October 5 banning face masks at rallies and carrying a maximum penalty of one year in jail sparked some of the worst violence.  Speakers urged the US to pass a Hong Kong Human Rights Act to ensure democracy. 

“Make Hong Kong Great Again”, read one poster. Some protesters waved the US flag and carried “Uncle Sam” recruitment posters. 

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam is due to deliver her annual Policy Address on Wednesday amid pressure to restore confidence in the government. — Reuters