Thousands March Through Hong Kong Demanding Democracy
HONG KONG (Worthy News)– Thousands of people crowded the streets of Hong Kong organized by "Occupy Central with Love and Peace" to press the mainland China for full democratic elections. Estimates greatly vary from 100,000 to 800,000 assembled advocating free and open elections.
The outpouring of people streaming the streets of Hong Kong encapsulates the growing anger and resentment of mainland China's refusal to cede political control.
The rally took place on a public holiday, which has become a day of protest, celebrating Hong Kong return to mainland China from British colonial rule 17 years ago.
Occupy Central has threatened massive sit-ins in Hong Kong's financial district if the government's proposal for upcoming city elections falls short of full democracy.
The march came days after an informal referendum took place where 800,000 residents participated making the selection of the city's top official more democratic, however Beijing dismissed the vote as illegal.
Police arrested 511 people for illegal gathering and obstructing traffic.
An independent estimated by the University of Hong Kong estimated between 154,000 to 172,000, the highest turnout since 2004.