My Take | After 20 years, it’s time Patten gave it a rest
A dignified silence is advised for the last governor of Hong Kong whose criticism of the decision to jail Occupy activists was seen as an attack on the judiciary and rule of law
Chris Patten never seems to grow tired of Hong Kong. Every year or two, our last British governor is back in town, whether to promote a book or give a keynote speech.
He is like the prom queen who keeps going back to every high school reunion because that time in her past was far more exciting than anything she has done since.
I have no doubt that Patten genuinely loves Hong Kong and wants the best for it. But it’s not clear that by inserting himself into contemporary debate and conflict he is being helpful or making things worse. There is a fine line between showing support and stealing the spotlight.
Most top officials retire and move on. That’s not just decorum, but the ethical thing to do. Times have changed. Your time to do good is past. That’s why former heads of state and other leaders usually try to maintain a dignified silence about their successors. They have the good grace to get out of the way.
Hong Kong’s greatest post-war governor, no sorry, it’s not Patten, was the late Murray MacLehose.