HONG KONG: Hong Kong's last major opposition party has begun the process of dissolving, a symbolic end to decades of pro-democracy party politics in the city.

On April 13, the Democratic Party approved a resolution allowing a three-person committee to begin arrangements for disbandment, including handling legal and accounting matters. Around 90 percent of 110 members present voted in favor, party head Lo Kin-hei told reporters.

"I hope Hong Kong's political parties ... will continue to work for the people," Lo said at party headquarters. "We have always hoped to serve the Hong Kong people, and to do things that are good for society."

Lo said the final vote on dissolution, which would require 75 percent approval, would take place in the coming months, potentially as late as next year. "Until the final dissolution, the party will keep on with its usual work," he added.

The Democratic Party, founded in 1994, was once the leading pro-democracy voice in Hong Kong. It advocated for reforms and civil liberties following the city's 1997 handover from Britain to China.

Its decision to begin disbanding follows months of pressure. Five senior members told Reuters that they had received warnings from Chinese officials or intermediaries: disband voluntarily or face arrests and further legal jeopardy.

At least five party members are currently in jail or in custody under the national security law China imposed on Hong Kong in 2020 after widespread pro-democracy protests.

Yeung Sum, a party founder and former chairman, called the decision "a pity."

"I believe people in Hong Kong, after experiencing democracy, an open political system, and the rule of law, won't forget and give it up," he said. "The political culture and the fight for democracy will carry on in H.K. in a peaceful ... manner."

Beijing maintains that the national security law has restored order and stability to Hong Kong. Chinese authorities have rejected international criticism, including from the United States, that the law has been used to silence dissent and dismantle democratic institutions.