Keeping continuity in Hong Kong politics without the hardline is a balancing act
The chief executive candidate has promised to stick to current leader Leung Chun-ying’s acceptable policies
Chief Executive aspirant Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor yesterday tried to walk the tightrope of promising continuity with her predecessor’s more acceptable policies while hinting at a change from his unpopular, hardline ways.
Amid concerns she would adopt Leung Chun-ying’s uncompromising approach, she pledged to improve the government’s engagement with the public and its accountability.
The former chief secretary has been labelled “Leung Chun-ying 2.0” by pan-democrats and their supporters following a recent controversy over government plans to build a version of Beijing’s Palace Museum in Hong Kong.
Lam, who spearheaded the plan, caused a storm earlier by saying there was no need for a prior public consultation as it would be “embarrassing” if it opposed the plan.
Lam yesterday did not steer clear of her unpopular boss, but pledged to enhance the city’s governance.
“I would not have considered running if [Leung had] sought re-election,” Lam said. The incumbent gave up the race for family reasons.