Hong Kong Protesters Defy Gov't, Call for Democracy

Pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong continue defying government orders to disperse and go home.

The student-led protests, which began last week with sit-ins around the city's financial district, are the strongest challenge yet to Beijing's decision to reject open nominations for candidates for the first-ever elections for Hong Kong's leader.

Instead, candidates must continue to be hand-picked by a committee of mostly local tycoons, and screened on the basis of their patriotism to China.

China has called the protests illegal and endorsed the Hong Kong government's crackdown.

The protests have gained momentum among a broad range of people from high school students to the elderly.

Protesters also occupied streets in other parts of Hong Kong Island, including the upscale shopping area of Causeway Bay, as well as across the harbor in densely populated Mong Kok on the Kowloon peninsula. The city's transport department said roads in those areas were closed.

Local police used tear gas and pepper spray against protesters Sunday night. At least 26 people were taken to hospitals.