The Democratic Party of Hong Kong, once the city’s most influential pro-democracy political force, has initiated the process of disbanding after reportedly coming under direct pressure from authorities in Beijing. This move marks a critical moment in the continued dismantling of Hong Kong’s democratic institutions and political freedoms.
Founded in 1994 through the merger of two liberal groups, the Democratic Party played a leading role in promoting universal suffrage, labor rights, and civic freedoms. It was a dominant presence in Hong Kong’s legislature until sweeping changes were introduced following the 2019 protests and the imposition of the National Security Law in 2020.
On April 13, 2025, the party held a closed-door meeting where more than 90% of members voted to authorize the party’s central committee to begin formal disbandment procedures. Party chairman Lo Kin-hei confirmed the decision, noting that a final vote on dissolution may follow later this year.
While the party has not officially cited Beijing’s influence as the reason, former leaders and insiders suggest otherwise. Yeung Sum, former chairman, revealed that intermediaries connected to Beijing warned the party to dissolve or face “serious consequences.” Several reports state that Chinese officials pressured the party in advance of future elections, aiming to eliminate even symbolic opposition.
The Democratic Party did not participate in the 2021 Legislative Council elections, after Beijing revised electoral laws to require all candidates be vetted for loyalty to the central government. These changes left the city’s political arena almost entirely dominated by pro-Beijing voices.
Hong Kong’s political landscape has undergone a sweeping transformation since 2020. Alongside the Democratic Party, several other prominent groups—including the Civic Party and the Hong Kong Alliance—have dissolved under legal and political pressure. The space for civil society and opposition politics has shrunk dramatically.
Former leaders of the Democratic Party say the spirit of democracy still lives on among Hong Kongers, even if its formal institutions are dismantled. But the disbandment of the city’s last major opposition party signifies an end of an era—and raises serious concerns about the future of political pluralism in Hong Kong.
