As lawmakers head off for the holidays, Hong Kong badly needs a break from political one-upmanship
Alice Wu appeals to both the pan-democratic and pro-establishment camps to try to see each other’s points of view, as a basis for building a consensus
Finally, some good news as we wind up the year: the expected canonisation of Mother Teresa. So much whining has dominated the local political scene that it will take a serious intercession by the Blessed Teresa to heal the disruptive politics that has arrested Hong Kong’s development.
READ MORE: Hong Kong religious leaders use Christmas messages to urge end to city’s political conflicts
Speaking of saints, this festive time of the year calls for St Augustine, patron saint of brewers, printers, theologians and, last but not least, the alleviation of sore eyes. It has been painful to watch the circus that has given us another year of dreadful politics. We can all benefit from the wisdom of this medieval saint – that humility is the foundation of all other virtues. The time has come for our arrogant politicians to give humility more than just lip service. This culture of political one-upmanship is unsustainable and simply cannot end well: it does little good and accomplishes even less for the people they serve.
With the Legco election scheduled for next autumn, there is still time for our lawmakers to show the public that they, too, have the conviction to be leaders we can take pride in
Without humility, our politicians will continue to be blind to their own flaws and to areas in need of improvement. When constant mud-slinging distracts them from the real issues, they deny themselves the quintessential purpose of their existence – to serve the public.
Politics isn’t meant to be reduced to a mere spectator sport. Our lawmakers’ theatrics have become so predictable, their sense of self-righteousness so flagrant, and their ineffectiveness so glaringly obvious, that they have made a mockery of public service. Their politics of pride have rendered meaningful dialogue in political debate impossible.
But, our dismal state of politics doesn’t have to remain thus, if these sworn enemies could just choose to see some good in each other.
The pro-establishment side would be doing themselves a favour if they learn to appreciate the pan-democrats’ strong suits; and, while they may not agree with their political opponents, it would be good to appreciate the pan-democrats for their absolute faith in their convictions.
READ MORE: Hong Kong political gulf not closing any time soon
