Hong Kong has a new major political party.
Legislator Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee yesterday inaugurated the New People's Party, pledging to chart a new path for a 'quality democratic system' and economic growth.
Ministers - including Tsang Tak-sing, Michael Suen Ming-yeung, Edward Yau Tang-wah, and Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor - were eager to shake hands and pose for pictures with Ip and deputies Michael Tien Puk-sun and Dr Louis Shih Tai-cho.
Financial Secretary John Tsang Chun-wah, who was not present, sent a bouquet to congratulate Ip on the launch of the new party, which has got off to a humble start with a membership of 266.
Ip said she appreciated officials' presence, but added: 'Business is business. Their coming here today will not affect our stance toward the government policies.'
Former chief secretary Anson Chan Fang On-sang, who defeated Ip in the 2007 Legislative Council by-election, also attended. Chan said a new political party in Hong Kong could encourage more people to take part in politics.
Liberal Party defector and now a vice-chairman of the New People's Party, Michael Tien, said: 'Many people are apathetic. They cannot find a party to truly represent them ... Hong Kong needs a rational and level-headed party that is willing to speak for the citizens.'