Editorial | Now that Xi Jinping has drawn road map, it is up to John Lee to deliver desired results
- Hong Kong’s new leader and his team have their work cut out to meet the expectations of the central government and local public
- With firm support from Beijing and faith in ‘one country, two systems’, a greater Hong Kong story will unfold
Hong Kong is turning a new chapter. Amid mixed sentiments over the city’s recent development, President Xi Jinping yesterday sought to bolster confidence in the “one country, two systems” governance model and highlight the city’s uniqueness and strengths.
At the same time, he set out the clearest yet directions for the new administration – to enhance the quality of governance and improve people’s livelihood. There is new hope on the horizon, yet the challenges cannot be underestimated.
Much has changed since Xi last visited the city five years ago. A sweeping national security law is in place, following months of social unrest sparked by a now-defunct extradition bill.
Public offices are now filled only by “patriots”. Many opposition groups and some media outlets have ceased operation. The mass protests of the past on July 1 are now a distant memory.
The seismic shifts have fuelled worries that civil rights and freedoms are eroding. But the changes, officials say, are necessary steps to restore order and prosperity.