China condemns Hong Kong's referendum on democratic reform

, July 1:

condemned an unofficial Hong Kong referendum on democratic reform in which almost 800,000 people voted, calling it "illegal and invalid" on the eve of huge pro-democracy protests in the city.

Beijing said that the vote went against Hong Kong's constitution. It also said that the activists were determined to pursue self-interests through breaching the rule of law, disturbing Hong Kong's social order and holding back the progress of universal suffrage.'

Though Beijing has assured that it will let the residents elect the next leader in 2017, it has ruled out giving the voters a choice to select candidates.

Beijing's statement comes to light a day after a mass rally was held in in Hong Kong marking the July 1 anniversary of the transfer of sovereignty.

Many are said to have participated in the rally.

OneIndia News