Hong Kong Government "Dismissal Procedures Underway for 129 Civil Servants Refusing Loyalty Oath"

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Yuri] The Hong Kong government has initiated dismissal procedures against 129 civil servants who refused to take the oath of allegiance.

On the 19th, according to Hong Kong public broadcaster RTHK, Patrick Nip, Secretary for the Civil Service of Hong Kong, appeared before the Legislative Council, Hong Kong's parliament, and stated that among 170,000 civil servants, 129 who refused to take the oath of allegiance are currently suspended or on unpaid leave. He also said that 25 had refused the oath and resigned.

Secretary Nip said, "We are accelerating the dismissal procedures for the 129 individuals" and "it will be completed within a few months."

He explained that these individuals do not agree with the content of the oath or believe that the oath infringes on freedom of expression, and therefore refuse to take it. Some said their foreign nationality conflicts with the oath of allegiance. Secretary Nip stated, "Even if they hold foreign passports, I believe there is no problem in taking the oath of allegiance," adding, "As permanent residents or civil servants, pledging allegiance to Hong Kong and the government is a fundamental duty."

The Hong Kong government mandated the oath of allegiance for civil servants after the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law (Hong Kong Security Law) on June 30 last year. Until now, senior government officials, the judiciary, and Legislative Council members have taken the oath of allegiance.

Secretary Nip said, "Disciplinary hearings will be held for civil servants who violate the oath."

The oath of allegiance includes compliance with the Basic Law, Hong Kong's mini-constitution, loyalty to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, fulfilling responsibilities to the Hong Kong government, and dedication to duties.

RTHK reported, "Some pro-Beijing lawmakers expressed concerns that even if civil servants sign the oath of allegiance, their sincerity may be doubtful and they might work harboring resentment against the government."