SW News: Cardinal Joseph Zen of Hong Kong and four others will face a five-day trial in September as they have been accused of failing to register a now-defunct fund to assist those taking part in anti-government protesters. The Hong Kong Free Press news agency has reported that the trial is slated to take place from September 19 to 23.

The top prelate and four others have pleaded not guilty. They were accused of failing to register their 612 Humanitarian Relief Fund, which was established in 2019 to provide monetary help to those who were prosecuted for taking part in the anti-government protests that rocked the city. The fund was closed down in 2021 after it came under the scanner of the Beijing-backed Hong Kong authorities. It was on May 11 that the nonagenarian cardinal was detained under the national security law.

During the trial, lawyers from both sides are expected to argue whether the fund fell under the city’s Societies Ordinance which regulates registered and exempted associations. The arguments will also examine if the defendants held positions of authority in the fund. If they are convicted of improper registration, each person will have to pay a fine of $1,300.

Cardinal Zen has been an outspoken critic of the Beijing government for decades and has always been a champion of human rights in Hong Kong. He was also critical of the 2018 Sino-Vatican deal which allowed the pope to ratify or veto bishops named by the communist party. The top prelate believes that the deal will wipe out the Underground Church which has always remained loyal to the pope.

The  new national security law imposed by Beijing is used by the Hong Kong authorities to stifle free speech and dissent. Under this law taking part in pro-democracy demonstrations or supporting such activities is seen as subversion and collusion with foreign outfits. If found guilty, one can be taken to mainland China and the punishment is a jail sentence of a minimum of three years and a maximum of life imprisonment.