Former Hong Kong lawmaker Raymond Chan announces he is quitting politics
- The former radio and TV host is one 47 former opposition lawmakers and activists charged with subversion under Beijing-imposed national security law
- Chan was the city’s first openly gay lawmaker, and was best known during his time in Legco for his advocacy for LGBT rights and his participation in opposition filibustering campaigns
In a brief statement issued through his sister on Sunday, Chan – also known by his nickname, “Slow Beat” – said he had officially tendered his resignation as chairman of localist party People Power and was leaving the organisation.
“From now on, I will no longer stand as candidate for any public office or get involved in any election in any form, sector or at any level. From now on, I will no longer participate in any marches, rallies, protests or any gatherings that are political in nature,” the statement said.
Chan did not give a reason for the move in his statement.
People Power said in a post on its Facebook page that it respected and understood Chan’s decision and had accepted his resignation.
“People Power would like to express our sincere gratitude to Chan for his selfless devotion to the party’s work and the sacrifice and contributions he has made to the development of Hong Kong’s democracy,” the post said.