No compromise on checks and balances
- Sweeping electoral reforms announced by Beijing have far-reaching implications for Hong Kong, but an important principle enshrined in the Basic Law must be respected
Beijing’s determination to restrict Hong Kong’s governance in the hands of those it deems “patriotic” was made plain by the sweeping electoral reforms unveiled by the state’s legislative body on Friday. The changes have far-reaching implications for the city’s governance and political landscape.
While perceived threats to national security arising from “loopholes” that allow non-patriots to take up office are to be effectively met, it is important that checks and balances provided for under the Basic Law remain.
The options include adding another 300 seats to the 1,200-member Election Committee to choose the chief executive, with the 117 district council seats currently controlled by the opposition scrapped and replaced by other sectors. Separately, the Legislative Council will expand from 70 seats to 90, some of which will be returned by the Election Committee that will also oversee nominations for candidates.
The Legco polls, which had been delayed until September because of the Covid-19 pandemic, may be further postponed as a result, according to reports.
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Two sessions: China’s parliament plans an overhaul of Hong Kong’s electoral system
The proposed changes are seen by many as a step back in democratic development and a deviation from the consensual approach to constitutional reform in the past. But Beijing clearly sees the need to strengthen national security and enforce its comprehensive jurisdiction in the wake of social unrest in 2019, which culminated in opposition lawmakers lobbying for foreign sanctions and plans to seize a majority in the legislature to advance political causes.
As with the imposition of the national security law last year, the authorities have not shied away from fixing what they see as necessary.
Whether they have further steps planned to tighten their grip remains unclear. It is to be hoped that the changes do not mean the end of political diversity and pluralism.
Hong Kong election reforms: committee that picks city leader to get hefty powers
The harsh thresholds under the so-called “new democratic elections with Hong Kong characteristics” have raised questions as to whether there is still any role for an opposition. It would not be in the city’s best interests for the establishment to comprise those who merely repeat what the people in power have to say.
The Basic Law is designed in such a way that the executive, legislative and judicial branches discharge their constitutional duties in a system featuring healthy checks and balances. This important principle must not be compromised.
