My Take | There’s a sense of handover déjà vu, yet so much has changed
- As Hong Kong prepares to mark the 25th anniversary of its return to Chinese sovereignty, the city and its people are once again contemplating the future
Hong Kong prepares to mark a historic day. The city’s new leader is waiting in the wings. Concerns are raised about changes to the law. China and the US clash over human rights. And it’s pouring with rain. No wonder I am getting a sense of déjà vu.
All of this is familiar to Hong Kong residents today. But the issues also featured on Post front pages in 1997. Some things never change – but so much has.
The handover year was described as the biggest year in Hong Kong’s history. The city returned to China on July 1, ending more than 150 years of British rule. I arrived from London in 1994 and was married in March 1997. I had no idea what to expect once the British flag was lowered.
There was a lot of partying that year. Who could forget the Unity all-night rave in Kowloon Bay, attended by thousands on June 29. It was a great night, despite the long queues for a beer! Star performers included singer Grace Jones, rock band Gene and DJs Paul Oakenfold and Boy George. Those were the days.
But concerts by British star Elton John were cancelled after he was told he would have to keep the noise down. Urban councillors had even suggested those attending wear earphones. All this to preserve the “tranquillity” of Causeway Bay.
The first half of the year saw a race to get transitional arrangements in place. There was much debate about the precise form the new “one country, two systems” concept should take. A legal challenge to the provisional legislature set up by Beijing was launched. Controversy was also sparked by planned changes to laws, including giving police more power over protests. An estimated 55,000 attended the June 4 vigil in Victoria Park, amid fears this would be the last time it would be allowed.