Scorned suitor's tirade sours harmonious overture

History does repeat itself. There was a sense of deja vu at the Legislative Council on Thursday when Chief Executive Donald Tsang Yam-kuen vehemently attacked the democratic camp.

Without mentioning the democrats, he read from a prepared script: 'Some oppose to undermine the government's authority and popularity, for fulfilling their self-image, for media publicity. For them, it doesn't matter whether their actions are underpinned by any values of belief.'

The tirade was a throwback to Legco during the eight-year reign of Tung Chee-hwa, when hostile exchanges between him and some democrats were set-piece episodes at the chief executive's question-and-answer sessions.

Mr Tsang's outburst came in spite of the high-sounding goals he set when taking over from Mr Tung, of forging co-operation with the legislature and building an harmonious society.

In his opening remarks at his first Legco question-and-answer session in June, Mr Tsang said the tension between the executive and legislature had undermined confidence in political parties and the government. 'People lack trust in the ability of those who govern. The situation is regrettable,' he said.

This was followed by an ice-breaking trip by legislators, including the democrats, to Guangdong. Pundits believed the departure of Mr Tung and the rise of Mr Tsang could usher in a new political era. In view of the long relationship between Mr Tsang and some veteran democrats, they said the political chemistry could reduce tension between the two sides.