China Accelerates 'Hong Kong Election System Reform' Despite International Backlash

Carrie Lam, Chief Executive of Hong Kong
Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Despite international opposition, China is accelerating the overhaul of Hong Kong's electoral system to prevent anti-China forces from running.

According to the People's Daily on the 30th, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) held its 27th meeting the day before to discuss details related to the Hong Kong electoral system reform.

During the ongoing meeting, the Standing Committee plans to discuss amendments to the method of selecting the Chief Executive of Hong Kong and the election and voting procedures for the Hong Kong Legislative Council.

Earlier, on the 11th, the NPC passed a draft resolution on "Improving Hong Kong's Electoral System" with overwhelming support at its plenary session, which included increasing the Chief Executive election committee and Legislative Council seats by 300 and 20 respectively.

Experts predict that the Standing Committee's detailed discussions will also pass without major issues. Considering that the Chinese authorities need to hold the election committee election ahead of the Chief Executive election scheduled for March next year, it is analyzed that the related procedures will be completed quickly.

Tian Peilong, a professor at Beihang University, said, "If there is a high consensus on the Hong Kong electoral system reform, it will pass with just one review." Tam Yuchung, a former NPC Standing Committee member, also said, "The draft could be passed as early as the 30th."

Once the Standing Committee's decision is made, the work to amend related local laws in Hong Kong is expected to accelerate further. State-run media predicted, "All work will be completed by May."

Among the details of the Hong Kong electoral system reform, the Candidate Eligibility Review Committee, which reviews the qualifications of candidates for public office elections, is also attracting attention.

According to the state-run Global Times, the Candidate Eligibility Review Committee will consist of no more than 10 members. It will receive personnel and resources support from the police and the central government for various tasks such as background checks. Additionally, the National Security Committee established under the Hong Kong National Security Law may be involved in the Candidate Eligibility Review Committee.

Law Siu-kai, vice chairman of the China Hong Kong and Macao Research Association, said, "The Candidate Eligibility Review Committee can decide opinions on controversial issues by majority vote," adding, "This decision cannot be challenged under local Hong Kong law."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.