Non-affiliated legislator Dr Leong Che-hung is set to announce he will not stand for re-election in September's Legco poll.
Dr Leong, chairman of the Legco House Committee, has represented the medical functional constituency in the legislature for 12 years. Sources close to Dr Leong confirmed he had told them of his decision.
It is understood his decision is related to his imminent appointment as the next chairman of the Hospital Authority. Despite his strong interest in taking over the post from business tycoon Peter Woo Kwong-ching, his position with the legislature is believed to have previously blocked his path.
Dr Leong declined to confirm the rumours yesterday. 'Should that be the case, I will let you know,' he said. He dismissed suggestions he did not want to run because of competition from at least two new faces.
Mr Woo assumed the post in 1995 and was reappointed twice by Tung Chee-hwa. His term will end in September and there is speculation he will replace Victor Fung Kwok-king as chairman of the Trade Development Council.
Democrat Michael Ho Mun-ka, who represents the health services sector, said he would find it unacceptable if Dr Leong were to remain as a legislator representing the medical functional constituency. Mr Ho is a board member of the Hospital Authority.
