The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today strongly condemned attempts made by US politicians to seek the imposition of “sanctions” on prosecutors from the Department of Justice (DoJ).

In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out that politicians from the US Congressional-Executive Commission on China are targeting DoJ prosecutors who have been fulfilling their righteous duties of administering justice independently and impartially.

It said DoJ prosecutors act strictly in accordance with a longstanding international practice that the decision to prosecute will only take into consideration the admissible evidence to justify instituting proceedings and the applicable law. 

The statement said that Hong Kong is governed by the rule of law where laws must be observed and lawbreakers held to account. No one is above the law and cases will never be handled any differently owing to the political beliefs or background of the people involved.

It added that safeguarding national security falls within the internal affairs of a sovereign jurisdiction, hence the implementation of the National Security Law should be free from any intervention.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said the US’ arbitrary and unreasonable bullying has demonstrated disrespect for the rule of law, seriously violated international norms and grossly interfered in Hong Kong affairs and China’s internal affairs at large.

Secretary for Justice Paul Lam reiterated that any unscrupulous attempt to pressure DoJ prosecutors would be futile.

“My colleagues and I continue to stay united in discharging our constitutional duties without fear or favour,” Mr Lam said.