The Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) Student Union has been suspended following its public calls for justice for victims of a devastating residential fire, sparking concerns over freedom of expression and potential political motives behind the decision.

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University Suspends Student Union

HKBU confirmed to AFP that it had ordered the student union’s acting executive committee to suspend operations “with immediate effect until further notice.” The university’s statement did not mention the student union’s recent messages expressing condolences and advocating for accountability after the Tai Po fire at Wang Fuk Court, which killed at least 159 people — the deadliest residential fire globally since 1980.

The university cited reasons for the suspension including:

• Low membership rates
• Lack of commitment to improving student welfare
• Non-compliance with university regulations on financial matters

The student union rejected these claims as “unreasonable,” “unfounded,” and “arbitrary,” suggesting that the suspension may have “ulterior motives,” according to AFP reports.

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Student Union Responds

In a statement on social media, the HKBU Student Union emphasized that membership had actually increased sixfold compared with the previous year, despite challenges in promoting student initiatives. The union criticized the university’s decision as “irrational” and potentially politically motivated.

Social media users circulated images of a message posted on the union’s “democracy wall” — a student-run notice board — expressing condolences for fire victims. The message, unsigned, read:

“We are Hongkongers,” and called for the government to respond to public demands to ensure justice.

Following the posting, university security personnel blocked access to the noticeboard with tall barricades, drawing criticism from students and human rights observers.

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Public Reaction and Political Context

Kevin, a HKBU student, told AFP that the message on the democracy wall was “positive” and encouraged students to engage with important social issues before the noticeboard was sealed off.

Authorities in Hong Kong have warned against activities that “exploit the tragedy” and have arrested several individuals for alleged sedition related to commentary on the fire. A local YouTuber was also detained for alleged sedition in connection with the Tai Po fire.

Student unions in Hong Kong were historically active centers of political engagement and played key roles during the 2019 pro-democracy protests. However, many unions have been shut down or reduced their operations following a sweeping crackdown and the imposition of the national security law in 2020, which critics argue has restricted dissent.

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Upcoming “Patriots Only” Legislative Election

The suspension comes as Hong Kong prepares for a “patriots only” legislative election on Sunday. Analysts predict low voter turnout, reflecting public anger over the fire and dissatisfaction with government restrictions on political participation. Observers view the vote as a test of legitimacy for Hong Kong authorities amid ongoing national security enforcement and public unrest.

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Conclusion

The suspension of the HKBU Student Union underscores the challenges facing student activism and freedom of expression in Hong Kong. It highlights the tension between university authorities, student groups, and broader civil society calls for accountability following the tragic Tai Po fire. The incident has raised concerns about potential political motivations behind administrative decisions, particularly as the city navigates heightened scrutiny and social unrest.