Clarity needed on the questions raised by activist’s bail decision

Agnes Chow Ting, a prominent activist, has made a decision that has ignited a wave of anger among the authorities. She was under investigation under Hong Kong's national security law and was out on bail, but she chose to leave the country. This has led to a strong reaction from Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, who labeled her as a disgrace, a liar, and a hypocrite. The government also issued a statement, calling her actions deceitful and shameful.

Chow was granted permission by the police to pursue a master's degree in Canada while on bail, with the condition that she would return this month. However, she revealed on Instagram that she has no intention of returning. This has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the bail system, which relies on the trust that suspects will return. There are now fears that the police will be less lenient in the future. Chow's case also raises broader questions. She was arrested on suspicion of colluding with foreign elements against the national security law. She was incarcerated in December of that year for her actions during the civil unrest in 2019, but was released in June 2021. Therefore, she has been on police bail for an extraordinarily long period.

After more than three years, one would expect charges to be filed or the suspect to be released unconditionally. The question arises as to why the investigation has been prolonged without a decision being made. Being on bail is undoubtedly preferable to being in custody, but it is a stressful experience. Suspects are required to report regularly to the police and live in fear of their bail being revoked or conditions being tightened. Chow has stated that this experience has caused her mental health to deteriorate, leading to anxiety and depression. The police had valid reasons to allow Chow to study in Canada, providing her with a semblance of normal life while the lengthy investigation continued. However, they now feel that she deceived them.