The central government is concerned about conflicts within the Beijing-loyalist camp, analysts and politicians say, as maintaining social harmony topped the list of four expectations raised by President Hu Jintao in his speech.
They said infighting among politicians in the camp was unprecedented, arousing Beijing's concerns about its effect on governance under new chief executive Leung Chun-ying.
Hu, speaking at the 15th anniversary of the handover and the inaugural ceremony of its fourth cabinet, urged the government and Hongkongers to 'work harder' in four detailed areas.
'Harmony and stability underpin development ... [the government has to] accurately gauge public opinion and take concrete and effective measures to properly address issues concerning people's livelihood and social tensions,' he said of the first issue.
The second and third areas were upholding the authority of the Basic Law and enhancing competitiveness. The fourth was strengthening human resources development.
While Leung's cabinet and the Executive Council have been criticised for being filled with lightweights, Hu asked the city to nurture 'outstanding young political leaders' who 'love the motherland'.