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Timely lesson in democracy

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I was disappointed to see the photograph of 'accidental hero' Frederick Fung on the front page (South China Morning Post, April 9) soliciting support for opposition to the provisional legislature.

Although a democrat (Association for Democracy and People's Livelihood), it seems Mr Fung needs a lesson in democracy.

In any democratic process, an individual is entitled to oppose a motion, as did Mr Fung - a Preparatory Committee member - in voting against the forming of a provisional legislature. But when a motion is passed, Mr Fung should abide by the decision: support it or resign from the Preparatory Committee.

That's how the democratic process works in the West. One can fight tooth and nail before a vote - after votes are cast the minority not only should obey the majority, but then offer support for the final motion.

Mr Fung became an 'accidental hero' after a faux pas by Director of Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Lu Ping who declared him ineligible for the Selection Committee and the provisional legislature after his 'no' vote.

But as a product of St John's University, Mr Lu surely understands the democratic process, and that no one can be penalised for voting 'no'.

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