Wang Dan and Wuer Kaixi Denied Entry to Hong Kong

As soon as they heard the news of Szeto Wah's death, Wang Dan and Wuer Kaixi, who are both at Taiwan right now, each expressed their wish to attend his funeral in Hong Kong. They regard Uncle Wah not only as a symbol of the oversea democracy movement but also a father-like figure in their respective personal lives. Wuer Kaixi, in particular, considers that he owe his life to Uncle Wah.

Being sensitive political figures themselves, however, they are not free to enter Hong Kong, a self-governing region within China. Their cases received great attention in Hong Kong legislature and media. Wang Dan publicly promised not to participate in any political activity or give any interview or speech if he is allowed to enter Hong Kong. Indeed, he proposed to arrive just for the service and leave immediately without even staying a night.

Yet their appeal was formally denied. In a statement, Wang Dan said he was not just disappointed. In fact, he felt anger and sorrow. He also expressed his worry that Hong Kong is gradually losing its own democracy and rule by law. Separately, Wuer Kaixi said that he was "deeply disappointed and saddened."