HKFP approached dozens of candidates on Thursday for their stance on investigating last week’s deadly blaze in Tai Po. Just one prospective lawmaker responded within the deadline, as polling day approaches on Sunday.
Last Wednesday’s massive fire at Wang Fuk Court has claimed at least 159 lives, with authorities pointing to corrupt practices by a construction firm as one of the causes. On Tuesday, the city’s leader vowed to form an independent committee, headed by a judge, to investigate the incident.
HKFP asked 51 candidates three “yes/no” questions: Do you support Chief Executive John Lee’s promise of an independent investigation? Do you support invoking Cap. 86 -Commissions of Inquiry Ordinance to establish an Independent Commission of Inquiry for the fire? And do you support a crackdown on construction firm bid-rigging and malpractice at building management committees?
Candidates from the directly elected geographical constituencies were approached by email at 8am on Thursday.
Hong Kong Island West candidate
Only Jeremy Young, a Hong Kong Island West candidate for the pro-business Liberal Party responded by Thursday night. When asked if he supported Lee’s probe, he said: “Yes, he announced setting up an investigation committee, the most important element is speed, and getting to the bottom of things, how can such a fire break out and how can so many lives be lost.”
On the setting up of a probe under the Commissions of Inquiry Ordinance – which would allow for witnesses to be subpoenaed – he said: “I think the CE already mentioned his intentions, I will monitor if the current plan is effective before answering this question.”
On Wednesday, outgoing lawmaker Doreen Kong told HKFP that a tragedy with such a high death toll – and involving massive public interest – should be probed by a body with the legal power to summon witnesses.
Finally, Young said he backed a crackdown on corruption: “I support cracking down on all illegal activities and malpractice, large or small, it’s morally corruptive to our society and we need people with guts to speak out, backed by facts and logic obviously.”
In March 2021, Beijing passed legislation to ensure “patriots” govern Hong Kong. The move reduced democratic representation in the legislature, tightened control of elections and introduced a pro-Beijing vetting panel to select candidates. Authorities say the overhaul ensures the city’s stability and prosperity. But the changes also prompted international condemnation, as much of the traditional opposition remains behind bars, in self-exile or has quit politics.
