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First Female Leader Elected in Hong Kong

source: ibtimes.co.uk



China-backed Carrie Lam has been chosen as Hong Kong's first female chief executive by the all-powerful Election Committee on Sunday (26 March). The 59-year-old former chief secretary won the first round of voting with a comfortable majority clinching 777 votes out of 1,194.


Lam, who is Beijing's favourite, defeated underdogs John Tsang and Woo Kwok-hing – two other candidates who have now conceded defeat – by the comfortable margin as her victory seemed imminent. Lam was chosen by a panel of mostly Beijing loyalists and of Hong Kong's elite. Members of the committee start casting ballot at about 9am.


Lam's elevation, widely seen by Hongkongers as a move to cement pro-establishment powers, is likely to stir further tension in the fragile relations between China and semi-autonomous Hong Kong. Her hardline and pro-Beijing stance is bound to be a cause of worry.


Protesters who were already outside the polling site prior to the voting have voiced serious concerns against Lam's election. They say the selection process was nothing but a sham.


"I hope they will continue to serve the people of HK with me in ways they see fit," Lam told reporters soon after the elections. "Before my campaign, I thought I understood the many problems with my public service record," she added. "But during the campaign, I have learned so much more and know of my defects..."


Speaking about the political reforms and the recent rise in pro-democracy demands, Lam said: "I too want more democracy in Hong Kong. But Hong Kong is facing a lot of problems. Why don't we start with the easier subjects?" and added, "What I cannot promise is pace and speed and a timetable."


Unsurprisingly, many dignitaries in Hong Kong have welcomed Lam's selection, which would not anger Beijing.


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