Tens Of Thousands Demonstrate On Hong Kong Anniversary

Tens of thousands of people joined an anti-government, pro-democracy march Wednesday afternoon as Hong Kong celebrated the 12th anniversary of its return to China. Organizers predicted beforehand that around 150,000 people would attend the march, the turnout boosted by growing discontent over the economic downturn and dissatisfaction with Hong Kong's Beijing-appointed leader Donald Tsang. The demonstration was just one of several which took place on the July 1 public holiday - a day when the Hong Kong public traditionally express their grievances or support for Hong Kong's government and Beijing. Earlier in the day around 12 protestors were involved in a minor scuffle with police as they tried to stage a rally in the Wan Chai area of Hong Kong where an official flag-raising ceremony was being held to celebrate the handover. Later Wednesday morning, around 40,000 people joined a pro-government rally organized by an alliance of pro-Beijing groups which was initially led by Tsang. However, the anti-government, pro-democracy march was expected to attract the most support in the city of 7 million, with thousands gathering from early afternoon. Estimates of the turnout were expected later Wednesday but observers said tens of thousands appeared to be joining the main demonstration of the day. (Cont)
Source: Asia Bulletin/IANS
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