Two-day general strike called from September 2

Two-day general strike called from September 2

A group of extradition bill protesters on Wednesday called for a two-day general strike from September 2 – the same day that some university and secondary school students are planning to boycott classes.



The group said they are representatives from 20 different sectors, including medicine, tourism, aviation and finance.



This is the second time this month that extradition bill protesters are calling for a general strike – a rare occurrence in Hong Kong – after also initiating such a move on August 5. There was widespread transport chaos, as well as clashes in various parts of the city during that day.



The group said rallies will be held in Tsim Sha Tsui and Admiralty on September 2, while a rally will be held in Central the next day to let people express their opinions.



Winston Chan, from the social welfare sector, accused the government of turning a deaf ear to their demands, including setting up an independent probe into alleged police brutality and dropping all charges against protesters.



Asked if they expect a repeat of the August 5 violence, the group said they would urge people to remain peaceful.



A worker from the finance sector, who gave his name as Easy, said the rallies would not turn chaotic as long as the police showed restraint.



The group said it does not rule out escalating the action if the government continues to ignore their protesters' demands.