Countdown to confrontation as Standing Committee weighs poll rules
Sunday's expected decision on the framework for the 2017 election may set the scene for more political turmoil and spark Occupy into action
Hong Kong is replete with mysteries, ancient and modern: when will the West Island Line open? Did Song dynasty rulers shelter here?
And, these days, many city residents are mulling one of the most persistent and politically explosive puzzles in Hong Kong: how much say will Beijing allow Hongkongers when choosing chief executive candidates for the 2017 election?
It is assumed that the Communist Party will put restrictions in place, but what they will entail is, up to now, unknown.
If Beijing closes all doors … we will start mobilising the Occupy campaign
However, the answer should be revealed on Sunday.
That's when the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress is expected to unveil a framework and rules for the election, including how candidates will be chosen, a decision that most in Hong Kong expect will restrict the voters' choice.
The committee could allow Hong Kong to discuss the options for reform further, or it could set clear limits. These might include specifying the number of candidates, the method for choosing them, and the threshold aspirants for the top job must meet to qualify for the ballot.
Hong Kong-based political commentator Johnny Lau Yui-siu said: "The parties across the political spectrum will make their next steps according to Beijing's decision on Sunday."