Chan Ho-tin (pictured). The commentary that appeared in the Global Times criticised calls for Hong Kong's independence. Photo: RTHK
The mainland-based Global Times newspaper has slammed the recent establishment of the Hong Kong National Party, dismissing them as mere "attention-seekers who want overnight fame".
A commentary in the tabloid said the party consists of members who are in their twenties, and are eager to make a name for themselves.
It pointed out that a lot of youngsters in Hong Kong are unhappy with their careers or their future, and it was easy for them to gain fame if they entered politics with radical views.
The paper added that the idea of the territory becoming independent is "completely unrealistic". It said Hong Kong people should ignore the party or stand to hinder the development of the well-established One Country, Two Systems principle.
The new party wants Hong Kong to become an independent republic. It also wants the Basic Law to be abolished and is considering fielding candidates for September's Legislative Council election.
The convenor of the party, Chan Ho-tin, said earlier that most of its members are university students who hope to defend Hong Kong's identity. He said they feel it is being lost to the mainland under pressure from Beijing.
http://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1251548-20160330.htm
