HONG KONG – Former Chief Secretary John Lee Ka-chiu today pledged to adopt result-oriented governance, boost Hong Kong's competitiveness and consolidate the foundation for the city's development, as he formally announced his intention to run in the upcoming chief executive (CE) election.
Speaking at an online press conference this afternoon, Lee launched his campaign with the slogan "Starting a New Chapter for Hong Kong Together".
He said his decision to run was made out of his loyalty to the country, love for Hong Kong and his sense of duty to Hong Kong people.
The coming five years will be key for Hong Kong to move from peace to prosperity, Lee said, adding he hoped to build a Hong Kong that's energetic, happy, open, united, and peaceful.
"This new chapter will be a new symphony. Being the conductor, each member will be able to leverage his or her strengths to create the synergy effect... Together, we will play a more splendid new piece for Hong Kong," he said.
Asked about his lack of experience in commerce, Lee said no one is a "know-it-all".
"There may be only one person who can do this... God. Nobody will know everything but what is important is that the chief executive should build a team... which will be including all the expertise, knowledge and people who have the passion to do things for Hong Kong... Together we will build a strong government team," he said.
Lee also said the fact that he doesn't have a deep relationship with certain sectors means his government will be fair when handling different issues, with no other burden but Hong Kong's overall interests in mind.
Lee also conceded that there are differences in society, saying mending social rifts is a challenge for any government.
He pledged to walk into the community to hear people's views, saying being sincere is the starting point for communication.
He added that communication with mainland Chinese officials is beneficial to Hong Kong.
A CE candidate must receive at least 188 nominations from Election Committee members, with not less than 15 from each of the five sectors.
Nomination for the chief executive race runs till next Sunday, and the 1,500-strong Election Committee will select on May 8 the city’s next leader, who will succeed Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor.
Lam announced early this week that she would not seek reelection, citing family reasons. – RTHK, MPD
