Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam said Tuesday that "ideologies" are the biggest threat to the city's national security. Lam said during her weekly news conference that parents, teachers and religious leaders should closely monitor the young and report those that are breaking the law.
Hong Kong's political atmosphere had taken a sharp turn towards authoritarianism after the passing of the Beijing-drafted national security law last year. Officials said the law was meant to resolve the months of often violent protests in the city, which had affected its status as the region's financial hub.
Lam said she was dismayed at the fact that some residents had mourned the death of a 50-year-old Vitasoy employee that stabbed a police officer before committing suicide. Lam said the man's actions promoted the wrong ideals and people should not support such acts.
Several residents have visited the scene of the attack on the 28-year-old police officer - some with their children - to pay their respects. This has drawn condemnation from Lam and other government officials who have described the attack as an act of "terrorism."
"For a long time, citizens have been exposed to wrong ideas, such as achieving justice through illegal means," Lam said.
Since the national security law was imposed, dozens of prominent anti-government personalities and activists have been arrested. Critics of the new law said its passing is a violation of human rights and freedoms. However, officials said the law has since restored stability.
Lam said government agencies should work together to prevent radical ideologies from filtering through to the public via television, education, arts and culture. Lam said these types of ideologies are "beautifying violence" and clouding the conscience of the public.
"I also call on parents, principals, teachers, and even pastors to observe the acts of teenagers around them. If some teens are found to be committing illegal acts, they must be reported," Lam said.
Lam said people should not be deceived by messages circulating online accusing the government of being responsible for inciting violence. Lam urged people not to look for excuses "on behalf of the violent."
