WHO IS TELLING THE TRUTH IN THE TSUI CASE?

WHATEVER the outcome of the historic public debate which highlighted sexual harassment, telephone bugging and political vetting within Hong Kong's anti-corruption agency, one man has come out a clear winner . . . or so he would have others believe.

Since his controversial dismissal from the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), Alex Tsui Ka-kit has become something of a local hero.

Sacked over allegations of triad links, of diverting investigations from companies belonging to his friends and of failing to follow commission procedure, Mr Tsui seems to be enjoying the attention his downfall has brought.

He now has his own chat show on Metro Radio and has turned down two film roles because of work commitments.

''At least I have had my say, I have put my case forward and the public know that,'' he said. ''It would be dishonest of me if I said I did not want justice from this, but the inquiry has become too political and the panel will be under too much pressure to find in favour of the ICAC.'' The unprecedented inquiry into the sacking of the former senior graft fighter, which started five months ago, was supposed to have come to a conclusion last week. But members of the Legislative Council's security panel seem just as confused as the public as to who is in the wrong. Members have said they are still ''grappling'' with core evidence and a verdict may be several months away.

Both Mr Tsui and his sparring partner, ICAC commissioner Bertrand de Speville, could still be recalled to provide written clarification of their allegations. So what exactly is to be achieved from this historic hearing? They were originally brought before the security panel to unearth the reasons behind Mr Tsui's dismissal. But what followed was a public bout between the headmaster and his former star pupil. The animosity was so great that the case attracted more public interest than a favourite television soap opera.