Politicians everywhere downplay their popularity ratings when they are low. Last month, in announcing his HK$11 billion relief package, Chief Executive Donald Tsang Yam-kuen said that popularity ratings were like 'passing clouds'. Neither the package nor his comment helped lift his popularity.
In Hong Kong, popularity surveys started in the days of Chris Patten, the last governor. It is interesting to examine how the issue of popularity has affected Hong Kong's leaders.
As a seasoned politician, Mr Patten knew from day one that he had to establish his credentials with the ordinary people of Hong Kong. His first public act was to rampage through the crowded streets of Mong Kok and Wan Chai, drinking bitter Chinese herbal tea and gulping down egg tarts. News about his pet dogs and lovely daughters filled the gossip pages. He projected himself not as an aloof colonial master but as a caring leader.
But Mr Patten was about more than just show and fanfare. He took on the mission of giving more democracy to the people, who viewed the handover with anxiety and trepidation. He expanded the electorate of the functional constituencies, resulting in a strong rebuff from China. But the insulting personal attacks from Beijing and its friends only enhanced Mr Patten's reputation as a champion for democracy.
It would be too simple to regard him as a 'one-issue' governor. He did several things that not only sustained his popularity, but also had a lasting impact on Hong Kong's governance. He started the regular question-and-answer sessions with legislators. He set up town-hall-type gatherings to meet the public after delivering his annual policy address. He asked government departments to devise and publicise performance measures of their services for public scrutiny. By so doing, he started a new chapter on accountability and set an example for his successors to follow.
Mr Patten was populist enough to know the value of spending money on public projects and helping the underprivileged. So he pushed ahead with the new airport and associated infrastructure projects, twisting arms in the process if necessary. He increased welfare spending and raised CSSA allowances substantially.
