- Whether they like it or not, those with manifestos that are inconsistent with the city’s governing principle of ‘one country, two systems’ will not be allowed in public office
Eyebrows were raised when Demosisto adjusted its political stance following an election ban on founding leader Joshua Wong Chi-fung in the district council polls. With the government toughening its stance against -the pro-independence movement in recent years, the decision by the youth-led group to remove "self-determination" from its manifesto was a necessary step for "political rehabilitation". But whether the change means Wong and his fellow members can run for elected office in future remains to be seen.
The group said it had no election plans at this stage. But, by focusing on "promoting Hong Kong's democratic and progressive values", the decision is seen as paving the way for the Legislative Council polls in September. The notion of self-determination, which includes the option for independence following the end of Beijing's pledge to keep the city's systems and way of life unchanged for 50 years, was deemed inconsistent with the Basic Law, under which Hong Kong is an inalienable part of China.
The change has raised questions whether rehabilitation for politicians is possible. The group is obviously facing different pressure from supporters. By giving up the option of self-determination, it risks being accused of bowing to political screening. But there are also calls for adjustments, without which the group may never be able to run in elections. Officials were evasive when asked whether there would be a second chance for politicians willing to give up their pro-independence stance.
Nominations for the September polls will begin this summer. Individual officers in charge of vetting candidates' qualifications have to carefully consider whether the revised manifesto will make a difference, and decisions must be able to withstand the legal test.
Compromise is not unusual in politics. It has been made clear that only those who do not cross Beijing's red line of sovereignty can get into the establishment. Whether a change in manifesto wording is enough to pass the hurdle shall be closely watched. What matters, ultimately, is not just the beliefs, but also actions. Like it or not, advocacies inconsistent with "one country, two systems" will not be allowed in public office. It is a political reality to live with.
Copyright (c) 2020. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
