Opinion | Time for Legco to get back to business and put differences aside
- The high-profile attack by Beijing on delaying tactics by pro-democrats puts more lawmakers at risk of disqualification with important decisions yet to be taken
Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor yesterday rejected claims that Beijing had interfered and instead hit out at lawmakers for encouraging foreign intervention. She would not be drawn on whether action should be taken against Kwok, saying the way forward was for Legco to resolve the matter on its own.
Whether the delaying tactics amount to a breach of oath and misconduct in public office is open to debate. In any case, such investigations shall be a matter for the Hong Kong government to consider under the Basic Law. The opposition criticised the two offices for interfering in the city’s internal affairs and undermining the key principle of “one country, two systems”. But given its growing stress on having comprehensive jurisdiction over Hong Kong, Beijing is likely to speak out on issues of importance when needed. The strong remarks underline its growing impatience with the impasse.
At stake are not just the appointment of the next chief justice and dozens of bills caught up in the current backlog. The opposition may think it can score by stalling a controversial national anthem law. But Beijing’s response shows the row may easily escalate into another disqualification saga if it is not handled properly. Lawmakers from across the political spectrum should put aside their differences and get on with Legco business in accordance with the Basic Law.