Non-partisan declaration decries the deterioration of governance
Hundreds of professionals, academics and non-governmental organisation leaders are to sign a declaration calling for the defence of Hong Kong's core values such as democracy and the rule of law, which they say are being eroded.
Drafters of the 'Hong Kong Core Values Declaration' say it is a nonpartisan push backed by people who are disturbed by the deterioration of governance.
The campaign started on Tuesday and so far more than 80 people have signed the declaration.
Albert Lai Kwong-tak, chairman of the Conservancy Association, said he expected hundreds of people to sign by next Friday's deadline.
He said organisers would spend about $100,000 to publish the declaration in several newspaper advertisements on June 7.
'We are deeply concerned about the deterioration in governance and the growing social polarisation in Hong Kong,' the declaration says. 'The alarm has rung for all of us, irrespective of social background and political orientation, to stand up and defend Hong Kong's core values, including democracy, liberty, fairness, transparency and the rule of law.'