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SCMP Editorial
Editorial
SCMP Editorial

Hong Kong’s new Legislative Council president must strike the right balance

In her new role, Starry Lee needs to lead the council in cooperating with the government while representing the voice of the public

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Starry Lee (right) receives applause at a special forum at the Legislative Council complex on January 8 ahead of the election of the president of the council. Photo: Karma Lo
SCMP Editorial
Editorials represent the views of the South China Morning Post on the issues of the day.
In a symbolic fresh start, the new Legislative Council has elected Starry Lee Wai-king as its president. The veteran lawmaker is experienced in rules and procedures and can preserve continuity while fostering change. Even so, the tasks ahead of her are daunting. How to cooperate closely with the executive branch and enhance “all-patriots” governance without compromising the constitutional functions of the legislature under the Basic Law will put her to the test.
The Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) lawmaker defeated Ronick Chan Chun-ying by only five votes in the first contest between pro-government rivals for the post. Major parties reportedly allowed members a free vote in what was said to be in line with Beijing’s consent for a substantive race within the patriotic camp.

Lee is a safe pair of hands. As head of the House Committee in previous terms, she deputised for the president to chair meetings as needed. After becoming Hong Kong’s sole delegate to the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee in 2023, she stepped down as DAB party leader but continued her Legco duties.

Aware of concerns over her NPC standing committee role and duties, Lee said only four of its meetings would overlap with the Legco schedule each year. She stressed that her Legco work remained her primary focus and that she believed she could help Legco guide the authorities in integrating Hong Kong into the nation’s overall development. The dual roles need not run into conflict when Lee discharges her Legco duties according to the law. She also dismissed concerns that her presidency would lead to “one-party dominance”.

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