What is LegCo in the Hong Kong SAR: A Brief Explanation.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's LegCo serves as a regional legislature with the mandate to pass and change statutes for the territory. However, electoral processes for this council have seen a notable absence in substantive competing voices against a backdrop of major political transformations in recent years.
After the transfer of sovereignty in 1997, a model of "one nation, two systems" was established, guaranteeing that Hong Kong would retain a level of independence. Gradually, observers note that these freedoms have been systematically curtailed.
Key Developments and Reforms
During 2014, legislation was introduced that would have allow residents to vote for the city's leader. Notably, the selection was restricted to contenders vetted by central authorities.
The year 2019 experienced extensive protests, which featured an incident where protesters entered the government building to demonstrate against a proposed law.
The Consequence of the NSL
Enacted in June 2020, the National Security Law provided unprecedented powers to the mainland over Hong Kong's affairs. Acts such as collusion were criminalized. After this law, the primary opposition organization dissolved.
Today's Electoral Framework
The council polls are viewed as Hong Kong's main electoral exercise. But, regulations established in recent years now stipulate that only individuals deemed loyal are eligible to contest seats.
- Distribution of Seats: Now, only 20 out of 90 seats are filled by public ballot.
- The Majority: The balance are appointed by a government-aligned body.
- New Rules: Newly suggested requirements would compel legislators to "sincerely support" Beijing's jurisdiction.
Voter Behavior
With many means of expression now criminalized, not voting has been seen as one of the remaining legal ways for residents to express dissent. This has led to historically low electoral engagement in the latest LegCo polls.
