A student from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Miles Kwan, has been expelled for his calls for accountability regarding a fatal fire that occurred in November, resulting in 168 deaths. Kwan, who is 24 and studying politics, had previously been detained by the city's national security police for two nights on suspicion of 'seditious intent' after distributing flyers advocating for an independent inquiry into the fire. His actions have sparked significant controversy given the political climate in Hong Kong, where calls for accountability can be seen as a challenge to the authorities.

The university's disciplinary actions followed a review process that considered Kwan's past detention and his public stance. CUHK has clarified that the expulsion was based on what they termed 'multiple acts of misconduct', and students facing a set number of demerits may face termination. As the university refrains from commenting on individual cases, it is unclear how Kwan’s specific actions were categorized, but his case reflects broader issues of student activism and freedom of speech in Hong Kong.

Kwan's expulsion prompts discussions on academic freedom and the pressures exerted on students in a region that has tightened its grip on dissent and free expression amid ongoing political tensions. This incident may deter other students from voicing similar calls for governmental accountability in fear of reprisal, highlighting the precarious balance between civic engagement and institutional disciplinary measures in an increasingly regulated environment in Hong Kong.