At least 12 Hong Kong pro-democracy nominees, including prominent activist Joshua Wong, were disqualified from September legislative elections, with authorities saying Thursday they failed to uphold the region's mini-constitution and pledge allegiance to Hong Kong and Beijing. Wong and many pro-democracy nominees had been asked to clarify their political stance earlier this week as their nominations were being reviewed. Kwok said the disqualification of pro-democracy nominees was a political decision that amounted to political screening. Youths arrestedEarlier Thursday, Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Lee Cheuk-yan denounced the new national security law imposed by Beijing in response to last year's massive protests calling for greater freedoms. The four, aged between 16 and 21, were detained Wednesday for announcing on social media that they had set up an organization for Hong Kong independence.

Source: CBC News July 30, 2020 12:22 UTC