The Chinese regime finalized a sweeping overhaul of Hong Kong’s electoral system on March 30, drastically curbing democratic representation in the city as authorities seek to ensure “patriots” rule the global financial hub. The measures are part of Beijing’s efforts to consolidate its increasingly authoritarian grip over its freest city following the imposition of a national security law in June, which critics see as a tool to crush dissent. The changes would see the number of directly elected representatives fall and the number of Beijing-approved officials rise in an expanded legislature, Chinese state-run Xinhua news agency reported. As part of the shake-up, a powerful new vetting committee will monitor candidates for public office and work with national security authorities to ensure they are loyal to Beijing. Maria Tam, a senior Hong Kong politician who works with China’s parliament on matters relating to Hong Kong’s mini-constitution told Reuters the Committee for …
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