Before Hong Kong society has reached any consensus on political reform, with citizens still expressing their opinions, the central government has announced that the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress will interpret relevant provisions in the Basic Law.
This approach comes as a surprise to a great many people, and leads them to suspect that Beijing does not trust the Hong Kong people. We recognise the Standing Committee's right to interpret the Basic Law, but question the reasonableness and urgency of doing so. Intervening in this way disrupts the Hong Kong government's original plan to consult the people and has the potential to ride roughshod over people's views.
Since 1997, the governance of Hong Kong is a great worry to the people, who are deeply dissatisfied, and there is a lack of effective channels for fair expression of opinions as well as avenues for positive participation in public affairs. For the sake of effective governance in the long term and the peace of mind of the people, it is essential to have a political structure that enables the people to participate actively and responsibly. Only if the chief executive and legislative councillors are elected by universal suffrage, will the government's acceptability and authority be enhanced.
Society, in economic, legal and educational terms and the democratic culture, is ready for greater democracy. We hope the Standing Committee will consider the possibility of universal suffrage in 2007 and 2008.
Progress towards greater democratisation will definitely contribute to the stability, prosperity, justice and the effective governance of Hong Kong. Furthermore, it will be conducive to better relations between Hong Kong and Beijing in the long run.
We are optimistic about Hong Kong's future. We hope that any interpretations will be in line with democracy, the rule of law and social stability. Hong Kong people and the central government should progress to the point that they trust each other. We believe that the people are united in their effort to build up Hong Kong and contribute to the country.
