Death Toll Rises from Fire in Hong Kong

The death toll from a fire that broke out in a high-rise building in Hong Kong has risen. At least 94 people have died, while 76 others have been injured.

The fire occurred during the days when Hong Kong was awaiting the verdict of Jimmy Lai, one of the city's prominent pro-democracy figures and a media magnate. Lai and hundreds of other activists face the threat of long-term imprisonment on charges related to national security laws and protest movements.

Since extensive legislative changes were implemented in 2019, voices of democracy and criticism of the authorities have been significantly curtailed, and elections have become a limited process involving 'patriotic' candidates. The next legislative council elections are scheduled for December 7.