Cracking down on dissent: National security law trial begins in Hong Kong
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They’ve come to be known as the Hong Kong 47. A group of prominent activists, former lawmakers and student leaders went on trial this week, accused of trying to topple the pro-Beijing government. Most of them, including Benny Tai and Joshua Wong, have been detained since their arrests two years ago. They have pleaded guilty in pre-trial proceedings to avoid long prison sentences that could carry up to life in jail. We take a closer look.
Meanwhile, life has returned to cities across China following the easing of Covid curbs. The change in the government’s policy came following a wave of protests rarely seen in the country since the Tiananmen Square revolt in 1989. Our correspondents heard some rare criticism of the government from young Chinese people.
>> Watch our full report: Anger of China’s zero-Covid generation remains intact
Finally, we discover one of Japan’s most celebrated performing arts. Kabuki dates back more than 400 years and is known for elaborate scenes, costumes and male-only casts. One boy is set to add a new chapter to the art’s long history by becoming the first dual-national actor. Ten-year-old Maholo Terajima was born to a Japanese mother and a French father. He has now announced his formal theatrical debut planned for May, both in French and Japanese. We speak to Maholo’s father, Laurent.
Source: Thanks france24