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In a controversial decision, the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has expelled Miles Kwan, a politics student, after he publicly called for accountability in the wake of a catastrophic fire that claimed 168 lives in November 2025. Kwan’s expulsion has raised significant concerns about academic freedom and the treatment of student activists in Hong Kong, particularly in light of the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the city’s national security legislation.
Context of the Tragedy
The fire at Wang Fuk Court, a residential complex in Tai Po, has been described as the deadliest residential blaze globally since 1980. In the aftermath, Kwan, alongside other activists, initiated a petition demanding an independent investigation into the incident, highlighting issues of potential corruption and the need for better oversight in construction practices. This petition also called for proper resettlement solutions for the affected residents.
The tragedy not only devastated families but also ignited a public outcry for greater accountability from government officials. In response to the uproar, the authorities established a judge-led committee to examine the causes of the fire, yet many activists remain sceptical about the impartiality of this investigation.
Disciplinary Actions and Expulsion
Kwan’s involvement in the petition led to his detention by national security police on suspicion of “seditious intent.” Following his release, CUHK conducted a disciplinary review, which culminated in the decision to expel him for what they termed “multiple acts of misconduct.” The university’s statement indicated that students accumulating three demerits due to disciplinary infractions could face termination from their studies.
The specific infractions leading to Kwan’s demerits reportedly included his outspoken criticism of the university’s disciplinary committee, which he labelled as a “kangaroo panel” and a “disgrace.” Additionally, Kwan had been previously charged with “criminal damage” for placing stickers on lamp-posts in 2022 to commemorate the Tiananmen Square massacre.
Kwan’s Response and Implications
In a statement following his expulsion, Kwan expressed disappointment and outrage at the university’s actions, asserting that they are using his educational qualifications as a means to suppress dissent. “You can take away qualifications, but you can’t take away dignity,” he remarked, highlighting the moral and ethical implications of such disciplinary measures.
Kwan had been on track to graduate in March 2026, and his expulsion has prompted discussions about the broader implications for students in Hong Kong who wish to engage in political discourse. His case serves as yet another example of the tightening grip on free speech and activism in the territory.
The Broader Landscape of Free Speech in Hong Kong
Kwan’s expulsion is not an isolated incident but rather part of a growing trend in Hong Kong where academic institutions and other organisations are increasingly apprehensive about political activism. The national security law, enacted in 2020, has instilled a climate of fear among students and faculty alike, leading to self-censorship and a decline in open dialogue on pressing social issues.
Many observers are concerned that such actions against student activists could deter future generations from engaging in civic activism, stifling the voice of dissent in a city that has historically prided itself on its vibrant civil society.
Why it Matters
The expulsion of Miles Kwan is emblematic of the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression within Hong Kong’s educational institutions. It underscores the delicate balance between maintaining order and allowing for dissenting voices in a rapidly changing political landscape. As the city grapples with the aftermath of the tragic fire and the implications of Kwan’s expulsion, the need for transparency and accountability remains crucial. The actions taken against Kwan may serve not only as a warning to other students but also as a bellwether for the future of political activism in Hong Kong.
