Appointed councillors say they're ready to face voters

It's nearly three years before the next election and already at least 10 district council appointees are thinking of running - after the chief executive said government-appointed council seats would be scrapped in 2016.

But some pan-democrats - who may be challenged by the former appointees - say they should have faced electors earlier, and that the appointee system has helped challengers to defeat pro-democracy councillors.

Those considering running include Nancy Lam Chui-ling (Kwai Tsing), Leung Chi-kong (Eastern), Holden Chow Ho-ding (Islands), Jeffrey Pong Chiu-fai (Wan Chai), Sherman Chong Yiu-kan (Sha Tin), Wilson Wong Wai-shun (Yuen Long), Alex Hau Wing-cheong (Yau Tsim Mong), Chong Kin-shing (Yuen Long), Chan Yung (North) and Yang Mo (Southern).

Lam, a kindergarten principal, said she planned to stand for the Kwai Tsing seat because she enjoyed working in the community. "I have been serving the district for about 20 years, and have been an [appointed] councillor since 2008," Lam said. "It is a meaningful and happy job, so I hope to continue my work."

She said she did not run in the 2011 election because she was not experienced enough.

Federation of Trade Unions councillor Leung Chi-kong was also appointed five years ago.

He said he was retiring from his full-time job as an FTU officer and had recently set up an office in Hing Wah Estate, Chai Wan - part of the Fei Tsui constituency now served by Civic Party veteran Lai Chi-keong.