Beijing’s top official in Hong Kong offers support to Chief Executive Carrie Lam and blasts protesters’ violence in first remarks since extradition crisis escalated
- Wang Zhimin condemns recent violence as ‘heart-rending and shocking’ and slams those who ‘colluded with external forces’
- He also backs city’s police and urges Hongkongers to give government ‘time and room’ to improve
Beijing’s top local official on Thursday strongly endorsed Hong Kong’s embattled leader and emphasised the rule of law in his first public remarks about the weeks of protests and turmoil that destabilised the city.
Wang Zhimin, director of the central government’s liaison office in the city, also condemned the use of violence and slammed Hongkongers whom he said had colluded with external forces to damage their city.
Wang’s remarks came at the opening ceremony of the organising committee for the coming National Day celebrations, which will mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China on October 1. It was his first speech after mass protests erupted over the now-suspended extradition bill
“Some extreme radicals have used uncivilised and violent means to storm the dignified Legco and vandalise the facilities. The acts were very heart-rending and shocking,” Wang said, referring to the takeover of the Legislative Council complex on July 1.
“That has not only destroyed social order and public safety, but seriously challenged the rule of law and the health of a positive society.”
Wang compared a city’s need for the rule of law to air and water. People might not realise its importance until it was undermined, he said.
Wang accused unnamed external forces for blatantly interfering in Hong Kong’s affairs over the extradition bill crisis. He said a small group of Hongkongers had colluded to destabilise the city for their own interests.
Wang also offered unwavering support for Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor.
“The central government has firmly supported Lam and her government to continue its effective governance in accordance with the law and to play a proactive role,” he said.
Wang urged people to allow “time and room” for Lam’s government, which has promised to listen to different views in a more tolerant and open manner.
Wang also expressed firm support to the Hong Kong Police Force in safeguarding public order and safety.
On “one country, two systems”, Wang said the central government would implement the governing principle without question because, in his words, it is the best system for the city and the country.
“With the strong backing of the country, there is no question that Hong Kong will maintain its prosperity and stability,” Wang said
He added, however, that Hong Kong should also continue to contribute to the nation’s overall development.
“We should look forward and give the government a chance to improve and serve the public,” Tam said.
