Letters | Hong Kong election ban on Joshua Wong yet more proof of clueless government

Whether one agrees or disagrees with Wong, he is a highly talented politician, a rarity in Hong Kong, now denied a chance to move forward from the role of protester to that of a constitutionally elected representative

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A woman cries for anti-government protesters as they hand out face masks to local residents, outside Kwai Fong MTR station on August 12. Riot police had fired tear gas in the area the night before. Photo: Winson Wong

Published: 7:00am, 30 Oct 2019Updated: 7:00am, 30 Oct 2019

The decision to ban Joshua Wong Chi-fung from standing in next month’s District Council elections adds to the ever-increasing evidence of the government’s political incompetence.

Whether one agrees or disagrees with Wong’s views, he is a highly talented politician, a rarity in Hong Kong, who wishes to move forward from the role of protester to that of a constitutionally elected representative of his constituents.

From district councillor he could proceed to membership of the Legislative Council, a body sorely in need of rejuvenation and political talent. Further, his move into constitutional channels would encourage his admirers to follow his example.

Not only has a great opportunity been wantonly denied, it will further stoke hostility towards the government and more riots. And from government the only response we can expect is another condemnation of violence and policy paralysis.

David Hall, Mid-Levels

Keep calm and carry on as protests exact mental toll

The weeks of conflicts have been an extremely depressing time for Hong Kong. Since June, Hongkongers have spent more than 20 sleepless weekends with live news broadcasts showing conflicts between protesters and the police, some of which have unfortunately turned violent, leading to many injuries and arrests. With the social atmosphere becoming more politicised, bitter arguments over politics arise in families and workplaces, causing mental anguish.