Chief-executive designate Tung Chee-hwa has announced that the word 'independent' will be dropped from the title of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).
He defends this change as following the letter of the Basic Law, which specifically calls for a Commission Against Corruption that shall be independent.
He also argues that the change is appropriate because the word 'independent' has never been part of the agency's Chinese name.
At best, Mr Tung's decision does not show good judgment. At worst it suggests an effort to strip the commission of its perceived independence and grant de facto immunity to those well connected in Beijing.
No matter what Mr Tung may say, many, in Hong Kong and throughout the Western world, will suspect the latter.
There are times when it is best to follow the letter of the law, and times when it is best to consider the spirit of the law and the immediate circumstances.
