The next generation of the DAB's political leaders did not hold back any punches yesterday when they held a press conference to announce their arrival. The pro-government party has created a youth division which targets young professionals and offers them political training to run as candidates in elections. Horace Cheung Kwok-kwan, chairman of Young DAB, was quite firm about what the Democratic Alliance for Betterment of Hong Kong's position should be on the pro-democracy camp. Donning a pair of red boxing gloves, he declared war on the Democratic Party chairman Yeung Sum. Mr Cheung said his party was indignant about the recent political 'about face' by Dr Yeung who is seeking greater communication with the central government. Mr Cheung said he wanted Dr Yeung to admit it was only a ploy to garner votes in September's Legislative Council election. 'I very much doubt his sincerity. In fact, I believe that once he has gained the seat, he will revert to his old ways,' he said. Mr Cheung added that the DAB had 'always cherished communication with the central government'. A letter would be sent to Dr Yeung inviting him to debate the issue, he said. The announcement of the new youth division was made at a trendy Italian coffee shop in the heart of Mongkok, an indication that the DAB, which was mauled at last year's council elections, is trying hard to shed its conservative image. The youth division has recruited 183 members. It is governed by a committee comprising 10 district councillors, educators, post-graduate students and finance professionals.
