CE: HK's democracy unique, aims at improving livelihood

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor on Tuesday vowed to have a "fair and open" Legislative Council election, saying the ultimate goal of Hong Kong's democracy is to improve people's livelihood.

Her remarks came after Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, said in a local event on Monday that blind pursuit of Western-style democracy has brought more harm than benefits to Hong Kong. Xia also mentioned the revamped electoral system in Hong Kong is expected to bring diversity and balanced participation in the Legislative Council.

Agreeing with Xia, Lam, ahead of the weekly Executive Council meeting, said there is no-one-size-fits-all democracy.

"What's the point of having the so-called democracy when people are suffering?" questioned Lam.

Lam pointed out that Hong Kong's democracy must follow what is prescribed in the Basic Law – which is promulgated by the National People's Congress, the nation's top legislature. She noted that Hong Kong is "particularly" unique since the city is operating under the principle of "one country, two systems".

Noting that the SAR government will continue to abide by the system, Lam vowed a "fair and open" conduct of the upcoming Legislative Council election, which falls on Dec 19.

As of 6 pm on Monday, a total of 18,215 Hong Kong voters who reside in the Chinese mainland have registered to vote at the temporary polling stations set at Lo Wu, Lok Ma Chau Spur Line and Heung Yuen Wai -- the city's three checkpoints.

Lam said she fully endorses Xia's remarks on the improvements in the electoral system, which emphasizes the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong", respecting diversity and returning more candidates with different backgrounds.

Lam said she expects the new-term LegCo to be more rational and prepared to cooperate with the executive branch, in a bid to further the interests of Hong Kong.

Particular focus will be given to strengthening relationship with the central government, and integrating more into national development, said Lam.