In my last column, I suggested that Leung Chun-ying should resign from the Executive Council because he has been relentlessly criticising government policy, undercutting its authority. I still believe it is best that he steps down. That would protect the council's integrity and allow him to speak freely in future.
Leung responded swiftly at the weekend, making it clear that he had no intention of leaving Exco and denying that he had criticised the administration. Leung published an article last week in the quarterly Hong Kong Journal, an American online publication, saying that the government had failed to address worsening social problems, thus alienating most of the population.
My point is that, being the convenor of the non-official members of Exco, Leung is a core member of Hong Kong's cabinet and, as such, should be seen to be defending, rather than denigrating, the administration. In fact, Leung has a history of challenging government policies. From the minimum wage to the widening wealth gap, he has been attacking the government for a lack of foresight in tackling social issues. His rogue behaviour has not only embarrassed the chief executive and his administration, it has also breached the rule of collective responsibility for Exco members, who must publicly support government policies.
But, as I said earlier, I don't believe Leung is truly anti-government per se. He is merely using social issues to increase his profile and popularity to build up firepower for the 2012 chief executive election.
To be honest, it doesn't matter whether Leung is for or against the government, the main focus now should be: what are the desired qualities in our next chief executive?
First and foremost, the candidate must have the blessing of the central government. Second, he should have widespread public support.
We all remember former chief executive Tung Chee-hwa, who faced many problems and became highly unpopular towards the end of his second term. He resigned in March 2005, citing health reasons.