Shiu Ka-chun: Champion for Prisoners' Rights Dies at 55

Shiu Ka-chun, a former legislator and social worker known for his unwavering commitment to the rights of prisoners, has died of stomach cancer at the age of 55. His journey from a civil rights activist to an imprisoned protester and finally to a supporter of other inmates encapsulates the struggle for democracy in Hong Kong.

Shiu Ka-chun, a prominent figure in the fight for civil rights in Hong Kong, passed away on Friday due to complications from stomach cancer, as confirmed by his wife Kelly Hui. Having spent the latter part of his life fighting for the rights of imprisoned protesters, Mr. Shiu maintained a firm belief in social justice despite his own experiences behind bars.

Born on June 3, 1969, to a working-class family, he pursued a degree in social work at Hong Kong Baptist University and later became a lecturer there, gaining admiration for his insightful and engaging classes. His advocacy against social inequities led him to engage deeply in grassroots activism, particularly during significant movements like Occupy Central in 2014.

As an organizer of protests, he worked to amplify the voices of the disenfranchised, including disabled individuals and the homeless. His passionate activism garnered him a position in the Legislative Council in 2016, where he prioritized welfare issues that often went overlooked.

In 2019, his dedication to these causes resulted in a conviction for public nuisance related to the protests, leading to an eight-month prison sentence. Following his release, Shiu Ka-chun became a vital resource for those affected negatively by the national security crackdown in the years that followed, reflecting his enduring spirit of resilience and advocacy for social justice until his final days.