The New Year is almost upon us, prompting the usual reflection on the events of the past 12 months. There have been few dull moments in Hong Kong. Many members of our community have contributed to shaping 2004. Who, then, would win the popular vote as Hong Kong's person of the year?
There are no shortage of candidates for this hypothetical honour. They come from all walks of life. And opinions differ strongly on who should get the imaginary award. Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa might feel he has a strong case. Sars has gone and the economy is rebounding. But a quick look at his popularity rating tells a different story. And last week's dressing down from President Hu Jintao surely rules him out.
There are also few contenders to be found in his cabinet. Chief Secretary Donald Tsang Yam-kuen might qualify for the political hot potato award, as he battles on with controversial electoral reforms and plans for West Kowloon. But the government's best candidate is probably Yeoh Eng-kiong. He knew when to step down - and did so with good grace.
The government's fiercest critics would be among the favourites. This is a reflection of political trends. 'Long Hair' Leung Kwok-hung deserves a mention for his stunning election victory. But his theatrics immediately after the poll would cost him votes. Fellow lawmaker Albert Cheng King-hon would be a popular choice for his ability to roll with the political punches and cause the government grief. Half a million Link Reit investors might think otherwise. And the woman who halted the listing, Lo Siu-lan, would be able to stake her own claim.
Hong Kong's Olympic silver medallists are a worthy alternative, even if they have only recently arrived from the mainland. In science, Polytechnic University engineer Ng Tze-chuen and his team come into contention for pushing ahead with plans to provide tools for an exploration of Mars. Sars researchers would also make the shortlist.
There might even be a contender from the animal kingdom. Last year, the Yuen Long crocodile won an RHTK competition to find the personality of the year. For 2004, speedy racehorse Silent Witness would be a reasonable bet.
