On 3 July 2025, in a significant and unprecedented decision, Deputy High Court Judge Reyes SC, after hearing arguments, allowed Soka Gokkai International of Hong Kong Limited (“HKSGI”) to participate in an unfair prejudice petition between a member of HKSGI, on the one hand, and various members of the Committees and HKSGI on the other. The grant is limited to a specific issue.
HKSGI is a company limited by guarantee and is a charitable organisation which promotes Nichiren Buddhism.
Parkside’s Ernest Ng (led by Mr. Bernard Man SC) acted for HKSGI in this matter. This Decision is testament to the rule that a Company generally shall only remain as a nominal respondent in an unfair prejudice petition is not an inflexible rule and the Court may so order in appropriate circumstances.
It is also a reminder that the principle that a company should remain a nominal respondent in unfair prejudice proceedings is not absolute. The Court retains discretion to allow the company to participate where appropriate.
