Hong Kong Democratic Party Votes to Disband After 30 Years

Hong Kong’s opposition Democratic Party has voted to disband and enter liquidation, bringing to an end more than three decades of political activity. The decision was approved on Sunday, December 14th, at a party meeting in Prince Edward, with 117 members voting in favour, none against and four abstentions.

Party chair Lo Kin-hei said the leadership had considered Hong Kong’s current political environment before reaching the decision. He thanked supporters for standing with the party over the past 30 years, describing its role as a bridge between the public and the government during periods of major change. 

Founded in the 1990s, the Democratic Party was once the largest opposition force in Hong Kong’s legislature and included prominent figures such as co-founder Martin Lee, known as the “Father of Democracy.” Its influence, however, has steadily declined in recent years.

Former chair Yeung Sum said the party’s closure marked a low point for the city, reflecting a shift away from Hong Kong’s earlier open and liberal character. The party plans to donate its remaining assets to a non-political charity as liquidation proceeds.