Letters | Time for Hong Kong pro-democracy lawmakers to live up to voters’ trust

The Hong Kong government postponed the Legislative Council elections and the National People’s Congress decided to extend the legislative term by at least one year. This created a dilemma for the pro-democratic parties because they had argued for an election rather than an extension. They even launched a public opinion survey, declaring they would bow to the will of the people, but the poll failed to show a clear result. This means no matter what they do, they will end up disappointing one group of people.

Ultimately, most of the pro-democracy lawmakers decided to stay on in the extended Legco. Given the city’s complicated political situation, their decision is reasonable and acceptable (“Democrats must stay on in Legco to fight their corner”, September 9).

First of all, directly elected lawmakers represent their voters, giving voice to their concerns and helping protect their rights, such as during the lead-in-drinking-water episode. Secondly, they play an important role as the opposition, fighting for the rights of the minority. Although this often involves time-consuming procedures or even court appeals, such resistance reminds the administration to consider grass-roots communities when formulating policy.