Hong Kong poses challenge to China President Xi Jinping's vision

The revolt raises questions about the Chinese leader's entire project

New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

The situation in Hong Kong is a nightmare for Mr Xi Jinping. China's President has made the restoration of his country's power and dignity the central theme of his presidency. But part of China's sovereign territory has descended into violent anarchy.

Universities have turned into battlegrounds. Protesters are hurling Molotov cocktails at the police, but they appear to retain a strong measure of support from the population. Chinese troops have appeared on the streets - but so far only to help clear the roads. Deploying them against the demonstrators could plunge Hong Kong into a long-term insurrection, similar to Belfast in the 1970s or Algiers in the 1950s.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on November 20, 2019, with the headline Hong Kong poses challenge to China President Xi Jinping's vision. Subscribe