Topic
Hong Kong enters a season of elections from September 2021, leading up to the selection of a new chief executive in 2022.
Hong Kong’s polls, although much changed, continue to perform an important function. But they must appeal to the public, especially the young.
Loyalists in control of previously fully elected bodies must also reflect the views of the public when dealing with local issues.
Despite a pledge that the local Hong Kong bodies will be de-politicised, it is important their functions are restored and carried out in accordance with the Basic Law.
Sunday’s Legco elections are the first litmus test of public sentiment since Beijing’s drastic revamp for a “patriots-only” race prompted an unprecedented opposition boycott.
Pan-democrats are apparently shunning December’s Legislative Council election, a move that will harm the checks and balances that are key to an open society such as Hong Kong
- Electoral Affairs Commission avoids issuing guidelines for members of municipal-level care teams who may run for any of the 88 directly elected seats in district council polls
- Critics have said access to constituents enjoyed by government-funded teams could be exploited by candidates to drum up support in December 10 election
Gary Chan becomes chairman of Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, replacing Starry Lee, who said she would stand down last month.
Party chairman Lo Kin-hei declines to reveal names of hopefuls, citing concerns over triggering electoral expenses prematurely under current rules.
City’s largest opposition party forced to call off annual event on two occasions over venue issues.
Analysts say overall drop due to emigration wave following Beijing-imposed national security law and young people’s waning interest in politics after electoral overhauls.
Proportion of directly elected district councillors to be reduced from almost 95 per cent to 19 per cent.
Tik Chi-yuen points to section in proposal indicating councillors must complete jobs assigned by the government, including promoting policies.
Constitutional affairs chief Erick Tsang defends decision to slash number of directly elected district council seats from nearly 95 per cent to 19 per cent under overhaul.
Chief Secretary Eric Chan tells Post that government will hold hand-picked members to same standards as popularly elected peers.
Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak doubles down on government proposal to overhaul municipal-level bodies.
Chief Executive John Lee says overhaul necessary to put municipal-level bodies back on right track of serving residents.
Source says remaining seats on revamped district councils to be either appointed by government or selected by committees staffed by pro-establishment figures.
Poll held to fill four seats vacated by previous members who left to take up senior government posts.
Analyst raises concern that candidates’ failure to engage with public will make residents feel distant from lawmakers.
Suspects accused of reposting messages from former lawmaker Ted Hui, ex-district councillor Yau Man-chun or activist Sunny Cheung.
But political analyst warns blanket proposal by Electoral Affairs Commission could deprive public of right to vote.
Lee’s campaign expenses totalled HK$9.1 million, of which HK$2.7 million was spent on election rallies and HK$754,000 on Facebook advertisements.
Hong Kong’s chief executive-elect has to find talented people from various sectors to carry out his vision.
Lee delivers remarks at public forum jointly organised by seven television and radio stations, just nine days before the city’s leadership election.
Former city No 2 says he supports incumbent leader’s plan for a reshuffle centred on housing and culture.
Former No 2 official became Beijing’s favourite almost overnight, leaving many wondering what the central government saw in the police officer-turned-minister.
Among nominators are some of city’s most powerful businessmen, including CK Asset Holdings chairman Victor Li and Henderson Land co-chairman Martin Lee.
