Editorial | Bridge the divide with Hong Kong district councils
- Government officials need to explain the role and responsibilities of civil servants and work with the opposition, so far as the law allows
The operation of the new district councils is anything but smooth, with the pan-democrats grilling the government over the handling of protests and officials walking out of meetings.
Concerns have been raised as to whether the opposition-led councils have gone beyond their functions under the law to pursue security and political matters.
Also being called into question is whether officials who shunned the meetings have failed to maintain political neutrality. The issues need to be clarified so councils can function effectively.
Cooperation did not get off to a good start when most members boycotted a meeting with Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung Kin-chung early last month.
Tensions rose further when some councils set up task forces or committees focusing on police handling of protests and other political issues. The moves were seen by the government as inconsistent with the councils’ statutory roles and functions.
