Long before the counting of votes began last night, one victory was very much in sight - and it belongs to the people of Hong Kong.
Individual voters may be delighted or disappointed with the results of this Legislative Council election, which are still being digested.
But we can take collective pride in the mature, orderly and peaceful manner in which the votes were cast - even when regrettable problems with ballot boxes led to queues and delays. Hundreds of people stood patiently in line outside one polling station in Mid-Levels.
Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa announced some 1.7 million electors had exercised their right to vote across Hong Kong. In percentage terms, the turnout was close to, and possibly higher than, the record 53 per cent in 1998.
This is a powerful demonstration of Hong Kong people's commitment to democracy - no matter who they chose to vote for. It is further evidence of our community's growing interest in politics and desire to play a part in determining the future of Hong Kong.
One geographical constituency which, early in the day, saw a greater number of votes being cast compared to previous elections was Hong Kong Island. This may partly be due to the clash of political heavyweights standing there. But the higher voting rate on the island may also be a sign of greater interest in the election among middle-class and professional voters.
The good conduct of candidates and electors alike contributed to the generally civilised atmosphere in which the election was conducted. It was a welcome change to the sniping and squabbling that had made the campaign so disappointing.
