April 04, 2005

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The two main pro-Beijing parties in Hong Kong have a problem. The business based Liberal Party has a leader with delusions of grandeur. James Tien is hoping that where one opinion poll gives Donald Tsang 70% support against his less than one percent, a new one he has commissioned will give completely the reverse result. The working class based Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB - try saying that quickly) are also tying themselves in knots at the prospect of being ruled by a former British lackey.

Luck and timing have brought Donald Tsang's career to its current height but the "alienation of patriots'' may prevent him from going further, a pro-Beijing legislator says..."There seems a cultural gap and emotional distance between him and the patriotic forces."
After their years of (usually) towing the Beijing line, the two parties find themselves dealing with a Chief Executive (CE) candidate they cannot abide. But over 70% of Hong Kongs and, more importantly, Beijing want him to be the next CE. All of this posturing and pleading is being studiously ignored by the powers in Beijing.

It's almost embarrassing how little sway the Liberals and DAB are seemingly having over the CE election. They'd be better off getting behind The Don and trying to make him feel at least partially grateful for their support. Otherwise it will be a long 5 2 years.

Update: Asia Times looks at the same issue: Beijing misstep over new Hong Kong head.

posted by Simon on 04.04.05 at 02:33 PM in the




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