Why ousted Hong Kong lawmaker Lau Siu-lai has a good chance of winning back Legco seat

Legislative Council by-election 2018

Letters

Published: 7:30pm, 13 Sep 2018

Why you can trust SCMP

I am writing in response to the article, “Ousted Hong Kong lawmaker says pro-democracy groups in city forming alliance to help her as she considers Legco comeback” (September 7). I think Lau Siu-lai, disqualified last year over her oath-taking in 2016, has a good chance of rejoining the Legislative Council.

In the Legco by-election in March, fellow disqualified lawmaker Edward Yiu Chung-yim was defeated, and criticised for failing to connect with local communities. Yiu was the first pro-democracy candidate to be beaten by a Beijing loyalist in this way since the city’s return to Chinese sovereignty in 1997. His main campaign promotion was on social media, which caused a disconnect with the elderly. Lau will surely be able to review Yiu’s election performance and create a better campaign platform for her.

Six pro-democracy lawmakers have been disqualified since 2016. Two of those seats have already gone to pro-Beijing candidates. If Lau loses in the November by-election, the pro-establishment camp in Legco will become even stronger.

Watch: Legco candidates reflect on by-election loss

The acts that got six Hong Kong lawmakers disqualified

There are also rumours that former TV anchor Chan Hoi-yan (supported by Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee and Dr Ko Wing-man), will be Lau’s opponent in the November 25 by-election.

What is certain is that the pressure is on for Lau. She has found able support in Alan Leong Ka-kit, the veteran politician, and other democracy supporters. Leong’s rich experience will be a powerful weapon for her election project.

Lau Siu-lai will no longer contest disqualification

November 25 is still more than two months away. Lau should use this time to become well prepared. If she really wants to contribute to Hong Kong, she should create a good personal image and not let the past ruin her chances. She should propose concrete targets or policies to persuade voters to give her the chance to be their bridge with the government. That way, I am sure that she can rejoin Legco.

Brian Fong, Tsuen Wan

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