The Hong Kong Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has
issued a warrant for Martin Oei, an overseas political commentator. The ICAC accused Oei of allegedly inciting another individual not to participate in the District Council election through his public social media posts during the election period. This act breaches section 27A(1) of the Election (Corrupt and Illegal Conduct) Ordinance.
Oei, who is currently not in Hong Kong, responded to the issuance of the warrant on his Youtube channel, where he
indicated that he has no plans to return to Hong Kong. The law against inciting others not to vote during elections was enacted in 2021, following an
amendment to the Legislative Council election mechanism. The then Chief Executive Carrie Lam characterised the act of criminalising such incitement as a constitutional duty stemming from two annexes revised by China’s National People’s Congress Standing Committee relating to Hong Kong’s Basic Law.
Local media have also
reported that Hong Kong’s Social Welfare Department is intending to fund at least 180 elderly community centers to assist elderly voters in commuting to and from polling stations. In response to potential concerns, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau Chief Alice Mak has
reaffirmed that this initiative is intended to support elderly voters in commuting only and will not compromise the fairness of the elections.