FORMER pro-democracy lawmaker Au Kam San was arrested July 31, 2025, under Macao’s revised national security law, authorities said. This marked the first use of the expanded legislation since 2023.
Au, 68, served five consecutive terms from 2001 to 2021. He is accused of colluding with foreign forces to endanger national security, according to Macao’s Judiciary Police.
Officials allege that since 2022, Au maintained contact with anti-China groups abroad and provided false and inflammatory information used in online and overseas public exhibitions. Authorities said these actions aimed to incite hatred against the Macao and Beijing governments, disrupt the city’s 2024 chief executive election, and encourage hostile foreign government responses toward Macao.
Police said Au was taken from his home for questioning July 30 and transferred to prosecutors the next day. His wife, Virginia Cheang, was designated as a witness. She said she was unaware of the reasons behind the arrest.
Au remains in preventive detention as the investigation continues. He was a leading figure in Macao’s small democratic movement, known for organizing protests and advocating social welfare, anti-corruption measures, and electoral reforms.
Observers view the arrest as a sign of increasing political control in Macao ahead of legislative elections scheduled for September 2025. / FROM THE WIRES