Veteran Hong Kong democrat Frederick Fung to quit party he founded 30 years ago
Seasoned political player set to announce departure from ADPL amid speculation he is eyeing easier run at November Legco poll free from constraints imposed by allies
A veteran Hong Kong politician and democracy advocate is set to abandon the political party he co-founded three decades ago in what analysts believe is a ploy to bypass candidate selection procedures for a legislative by-election in November.
Frederick Fung Kin-kee is expected to announce his resignation from the Association for Democracy and People’s Livelihood (ADPL) on Thursday amid speculation he will declare himself an independent candidate for the Legislative Council poll.
The move would allow Fung to escape the system by which Hong Kong’s opposition pan-democratic camp will pick hopefuls to contest a seat representing Kowloon West constituency.
Fung, who is known for his middle-of-the-road views, is expected to announce he will set up an advocacy group on Hong Kong’s housing crisis and other issues affecting the poor.
He co-founded the ADPL in 1986 as a pressure group before it evolved into a political party. In 2007, Fung stepped down as chairman after a disastrous defeat in district council polls. However, he is still regarded as the spiritual leader of the group.
