Hong Kong has a new pro-Beijing leader

John Leethe chief of security who oversaw the crackdown on Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement, was elected leader of the city on Sunday.

This 64-year-old former policeman was chosen by 97.7% of about 1,500 members of a committee loyal to the Beijing government.

Lee was the only candidate to succeed Carrie Lam.

The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, expressed on Twitter that he regretted the appointment of the former policeman as the new leader of Hong Kong “a violation of democratic principles and political pluralism”, saying that it “Another step in dismantling the principle of one country, two systems”.

John Lee takes office on July 1. Carrie Lam’s five years in office have been marked by massive pro-democracy protests, a security crackdown that crushed nearly all dissent, and a wave of Covid-19 that crushed the health care system – events that undermined Hong Kong’s reputation as an international business hub with the West – liberties of style.

In the speech after the election he said that Hong Kong is now entering a ‘new phase’ From development: “After restoring order from chaos, it is now time for Hong Kong to start a new chapter of development, one geared towards greater prosperity for all,” he said.

Lee listed the tasks he would face during his tenure. These include “Protecting our country’s sovereignty, national security and development interests” “Protecting Hong Kong from internal and external threats” and “Strengthening Hong Kong’s position as a financial center”.

However, Lee said the city’s most urgent task is to increase the supply of land and housing by simplifying procedures and creating working groups led by government officials.

I promised too Improving the health system and creating opportunities for young people.

After his career in the police force, Lee served as Minister of Security when Hong Kong was rocked by the anti-government protest movement in 2019.

It was also instrumental in implementing a national security law imposed by Beijing in June 2020 to end the protests, which have become increasingly violent. In June 2021, he took second place in the executive branch.

Hong Kong, the world’s third largest financial center, remains almost cut off from the world due to the severe restrictions imposed by Covid-19.

Under the motto “Start a new chapter together for Hong Kong,” Jun Lee promised a “result-oriented” ruling. But her 44-page programme, published last week, contains few concrete actions.

Lee promised to reveal more details after taking office on July 1, the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong’s transition from the United Kingdom to China.