Hong Kong: China on Tuesday emphasized that no individual can avoid legal repercussions "under the guise of democracy" following the conviction of 45 individuals by a Hong Kong court, as reported by state-run media. The Foreign Ministry's spokesperson, Lin Jian, remarked, "No one can engage in illegal activities under the guise of democracy and attempt to evade legal punishment." According to Anadolu Agency, Beijing's statement was issued after the Hong Kong High Court concluded hearings on the "conspiracy to subvert the state power" case, resulting in the sentencing of 45 individuals, including former lawmakers, to various jail terms. Lin Jian further stated, "The central government firmly supports Hong Kong special autonomous region in safeguarding national security, punishing activities that endanger national security, and firmly oppose certain individual Western countries interfering in China's internal affairs, smearing and undermining the rule of law in Hong Kong by using specific judicial cases." Amo ng those convicted were Benny Tai, a former legal academic, and former lawmakers Wu Chi-wai, Lam Cheuk-ting, and Alvin Yeung. The case involved 31 individuals who pleaded guilty, while 14 were convicted in May. They were accused of participating in a plot to overthrow the government by securing a majority in the Legislative Council, then indiscriminately voting down the administration's budget and spending initiatives to instigate a constitutional crisis.