The Hong Kong government announced it would extend a ban on public gatherings — established as part of coronavirus distancing measures — an extra two weeks through June 4, the day Hong Kong pro-democracy advocates mark the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre.
In light of concerns of experts, it is not the time for Hong Kong to relax the measures, Chan added.
Hong Kong recently reported its first community transmission cases in weeks, calling into question the containment of the virus.
Organizers of the annual Tiananmen Square massacre vigil held in Hong Kong’s Victoria Park could still apply for permits to hold the event, but those are unlikely to be approved by the government on grounds of public health.
Hong Kong is the only place on Chinese soil where major mass commemorations are held for the event.