Wu Chi-wai, a former leader of Hong Kong's Democratic Party, has been granted permission to stay in the United Kingdom for six months. The decision follows his initial detention upon arrival at London's Heathrow Airport last Wednesday. Wu faced a near 10-hour delay and was initially denied entry before being informed he could remain for one week, subject to reporting for deportation later.
On Monday, however, UK Border Force officials approved a standard six-month stay for the 63-year-old activist, allowing him to reunite with his family in the country. Wu, a prominent figure in Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, was part of the 'Hong Kong 47,' a group of activists sentenced to prison under a contentious national security law. He was released in June after serving more than five years for subversion.
Family Reunion in the UK
Wu's family, including his wife and son, relocated to the UK in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Since their move, his communication with them had been limited to monthly phone calls and letters. Wu expressed his desire to visit his family during this stay. Prior to his departure, he consulted the British Consulate General in Hong Kong about potential entry issues and was advised there would be none.
Despite this, the UK Border Force initially questioned his status as a 'genuine visitor' solely visiting family, leading to his temporary detainment. Wu has denied any intention of seeking political asylum, countering previous media reports.
Response from Advocacy Groups and Authorities
Hong Kong Watch, a rights organization, welcomed the decision to allow Wu to stay in the UK, stating that he should not have faced potential deportation back to Hong Kong. Megan Khoo, the organization's policy director, emphasized that the outcome was appropriate and expressed relief at the resolution.
Wu used his British National (Overseas) (BNO) passport to enter the UK. This passport is a travel document issued to Hong Kong permanent residents prior to the 1997 handover to China. BNO passport holders typically have the right to stay in the UK visa-free for six months. In 2021, the UK expanded this with a visa program for BNO holders, offering a path to citizenship for those who qualify.
Context of the BNO Visa Program
The BNO visa program was introduced following widespread pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, which led to a crackdown by authorities. The political climate has since become more restrictive, prompting many pro-democracy advocates to flee or face imprisonment. To date, the UK government reports that over 230,000 Hong Kongers have been issued BNO visas, with about 170,000 having relocated to the UK.
The UK Home Office refrained from commenting on Wu's specific case but reiterated its ongoing support for the Hong Kong community in the UK. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government noted that it has not received any requests for assistance from residents regarding such matters.
