Demonstrators sparked public backlash by blocking traffic
Michael Chugani commented in Public Eye on the statement I made against groups of protesters who cut off traffic on major thoroughfares in Central and Queensway on the night of July 1 ('Leung leads straight down the wrong path on protest permits', July 6).
Chugani said that I would be taking a 'wrong path' if, as a result of their actions, these young protesters were denied future permits to demonstrate.
I am in constant touch with a wide cross-section of our young generation, including those from underprivileged families.
I believe it is important for them not to feel left behind, or disengaged in any other way.
In recent years, I have highlighted the woes of poverty and the widening income gap, and argued for a minimum wage, better upward mobility and more affordable housing.
While we try our hardest to make Hong Kong a better and fairer society for all, I condemn the protesters for their acts.
On the night of July 1, I was in the vicinity of the protest in Central and witnessed not just the inconvenience but the hazard that the public were forced to face.