UK eases deportation threat against Hong Kong activist

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London: Wu Chi-wai, a Hong Kong pro-democracy activist and former opposition leader, has been given permission to stay in the UK for six months, just days after risking deportation over an immigration issue. The decision comes after growing concerns from rights groups and Hong Kong diaspora members, who pushed British authorities to let him stay with his family.

Wu, who was released earlier this year after serving more than five years in prison under Hong Kong's national security law, had gone to the UK to reunite with his wife and children. However, he was only granted seven days' immigration bond upon arrival, raising concerns that he could be deported before his case was completed.

His lawyer stated that UK immigration officials have now approved a six-month guest visa, allowing him to stay legally while seeking longer-term options. The UK Home Office announced that Wu will not be deported during this time.

Wu was one of many of pro-democracy lawmakers arrested as part of Beijing's broad crackdown on opposition in Hong Kong following the 2019 anti-government demonstrations. Human rights organisations have highlighted his situation as a critical test of Britain's commitment to assisting Hong Kong activists seeking refuge overseas.