Hong Kong Democratic Party endorses 8 hopefuls for first district council election since ‘patriots-only’ overhaul
- Party chairman Lo Kin-hei declines to reveal names of hopefuls, citing concerns over triggering electoral expenses prematurely under current rules
- City’s largest opposition party faces uphill battle after spate of unsuccessful attempts to host fundraiser and vetting requirements under ‘patriots-only’ electoral overhaul
Hong Kong’s largest opposition party has endorsed eight candidates to run in the district council election in December, with the hopefuls set to face stringent vetting requirements under the “patriots-only” revamp of the municipal body.
But Democratic Party chairman Lo Kin-hei on Wednesday evening said the group would not yet reveal the names of the hopefuls, citing concerns over triggering electoral expenses prematurely under current rules.
He said taking part in the election would offer the party an opportunity to speak for Hongkongers and change the political climate.
“We believe it is still important for the people and for the future of Hong Kong to have voices in the establishment that speak common sense and logic,” Lo said at a press conference convened after a meeting of core party members.
“We don’t want Hong Kong to end up in the way we see now.”
Lo, who had previously indicated he would run for selection, abstained from voting at the meeting as he was one of the members being considered.
