LettersHong Kong democracy camp wants many things, but do their demands add up?

Hong Kong’s pan-democrats are experts at making demands, as is the wont of any opposition bloc, but have scant regard for whether the demands are consistent or will actually lead to more democracy, rather than simply more headlines and greater confrontation and polarisation in society (“‘Mutual destruction’ is going to plan, what next for Hong Kong?”, July 20).

They demand China recognise “one country, two systems” under the Basic Law. We all understand this one. Some of them demanded that the United States treat Hong Kong the same as China, culminating in the passage of the Hong Kong Autonomy Act. This is presumably OK as the United States is not a party to the Basic Law, and tough luck for those in the export businesses in Hong Kong who are affected.

Pro-democracy Legislative Council hopefuls, including activist Joshua Wong, have refused to sign a pledge to adhere to the same Basic Law that they demand China abide by. No inconsistency there.

They demand Hongkongers vote for them at the upcoming Legco elections so they can exercise their right to block all government business, even though this will affect Hongkongers’ livelihoods, particularly those that rely on the government for support.