Appeasement in Hong Kong has failed and divisions deepened as more protests are planned

On a bridge by Hong Kong's government headquarters, messages to the authorities plaster the walls.

"Stop shooting our children" and "HK isn't China yet!" they read.

Fear, anger and mistrust sparked by a controversial extradition bill have spread through this city.

But Hong Kong's people have spoken, and the proposed law which could see fugitives extradited to mainland China has been put on hold indefinitely .

"We will pause and think and for the time being suspend and halt the legislative amendment process," announced Chief Executive of Hong Kong Carrie Lam after days of mounting pressure.

The violence the bill sparked is some of the worst in Hong Kong in more than 20 years, pitching police against protesters in running street battles.

When I asked Hong Kong's leader if she would apologise, she was defiant: "I confess that we have not been as effective as we would like to communicate with the people to justify these very good objectives that are worth doing.

"And at the same time there are other factors and other circumstances that have given rise to some anxiety and fear and concern.

"So the best way forward is to pause and think and to find opportunities and time to see whether we could still reach those good objectives as laid down in the bill."

Opponents are now calling for Carrie Lam's resignation.

They claim by not cancelling the bill, she's ignoring the people.

"She was totally arrogant, not willing to admit any of her misdeeds or her misjudgements and continued to use a forceful way to try to govern Hong Kong and I think this will push us over the brink," opposition politician Charles Mok told Sky News.

Shortly after Ms Lam's announcement, protest leaders confirmed a mass demonstration planned for Sunday would go ahead.

If the government's plan was to calm the situation down, it may have come too late.

Angry and afraid, a youth resistance has mobilised.

Jack and George were among thousands who fought with police this week. They say they no longer trust the authorities.

"I'm prepared to fight to the death against this government," George said.

"Whether the bill is passed or not they (young people) will not forget what they have experienced from the police," Jack added.

More than 80 people were injured in Wednesday's protests with police accusing protesters of endangering lives.

They in return were accused of using excessive force - firing rubber bullets and 150 rounds of tear gas at the crowd.

Undeterred, Jack and George say they will be back on Hong Kong's streets on Sunday.

It appears appeasement has failed - divisions have deepened.