OpinionIs Leung fit to lead? That's the only question really answered by Legco grilling
Albert Cheng wonders how the people of Hong Kong can believe anything the chief executive says, now that his integrity lies in tatters
Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying had previously denied any wrongdoing over claims about illegal structures at his homes. But in the end, he still had to admit that it was his fault.
It seems clear that Leung was forced to attend the question-and-answer session in the Legislative Council on Monday. He was most likely coerced by his cabinet - that is, executive councillors and top officials. He might also have been nudged by the central government's liaison office in Hong Kong.
His body language at the hearing was outwardly defensive, showing his reluctance to face the grilling by lawmakers. It was painfully obvious that his answers were scripted; he was well prepared and well rehearsed for the 90-minute session. But no matter how he answered, it all sounded the same and could be summed up with one word - negligence. He apologised numerous times and admitted his negligence again and again.
As a Chinese saying goes, "The fox will eventually show its tail", which means it will ultimately show its true colours and intentions. Leung, it seems, will continue to choose to lie instead of telling the truth. And without integrity, how can we believe anything he says from now on?
The question is, do Hong Kong people have to accept such a person as their leader? The answer is a definite no.
Hongkongers will not tolerate him any more. The central government shouldn't support a person with no integrity to lead Hong Kong. Allowing him to stay will do us no good and will only create more stumbling blocks in the implementation of government policies in the future.