File photo: Xinhua
Hong Kong (People’s Daily) – Principal officials of the HKSAR government on Thursday expressed their staunch support for and sincere gratitude to the passage of the decision on improving the electoral system of the HKSAR by the National People’s Congress (NPC), saying the decision will pave the way for the new era of development in the city.
Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, Chief Secretary for Administration, voiced support of the NPC endorsement in his statement, stressing that the decision laid a solid foundation for comprehensive implementation of the “patriots governing Hong Kong” principle, as well as the steadfast and sustained development of “one country, two systems”.
“It’s natural and essential to require people vested with governing powers to be patriotic,” Cheung said, true and firm patriots can ensure effective governance underpinned by the Constitution, the Basic Law and the National Security Law.
“The governing team of the Hong Kong SAR Government will stand together to garner consensus in society to build a harmonious community, improve people's livelihoods, promote economic development and address deep-seated problems for the betterment of people.”
Cheung pledged that the HKSAR government to fully cooperate and support the relevant follow-up work on improving the electoral system, including strengthening explanation to the public and striving to complete the local legislative procedures as soon as possible.
Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, Secretary for Justice, also agreed in her statement that only through “patriots governing Hong Kong” can the “one country, two systems” principle be fully executed, thereby ensuring the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and safeguarding the sovereignty, security and development interests of the country.
Cheng pointed out that while Hong Kong enjoys a high degree of autonomy, some matters including the constitutional order are still within the central authorities' purview. It is constitutional and legal for the NPC to adopt a "decision plus amendment" approach to improve Hong Kong's electoral system.
The Department of Justice is committed to rendering full support to the government in completing the legislative amendments and making necessary arrangements for the elections in the coming 12 months, Cheng added.
John Lee Ka-chiu, Secretary for Security, welcomed and expressed full support of the NPC’s decision as well.
“Patriots governing Hong Kong” will put an end to the absurd period that caused destruction in Hong Kong, and usher in a new era of development in the city, Lee reiterated in his statement.
He vows to lead the disciplinary forces to fully cooperate and continue to fulfil the responsibilities of safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests, and ensuring the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong.
Meanwhile, the heads of six disciplinary forces, namely Police, Customs, Immigration, Fire Services, Correctional Services and Government Flying Service, each issued a statement upholding the NPC’s decision.
They pledged to stand united, also remain dedicated and committed to deliver their service faithfully according to the law, and combat activities that endanger national security.