HK PROTEST UNNECESSARY 

A letter published in the Voices Pages of Today newspaper on 4 October 2014

It seems nobody wants to risk his democratic credentials by breathing a word against Hong Kong’s pro-democracy protest. I, for one, have reservations about it.

First, ironically, occupying the city, disrupting life and business and inviting trouble does not seem too democratic. It also appears to do more harm than good to Hong Kong’s stature as a financial centre and tourist destination.

Foreigners who cheer the protest may not be so pure in their intentions too, as they may have their own agenda.

Second, the promise of political freedom is only for 50 years (from 1997). In 33 years’ time, Hong Kong will be under Beijing’s full control.

Understandably, China wants a say in the selection of the territory’s Chief Executive, to prevent any bad surprises or disruptions to a smooth transition.

Third, Hong Kong is already part of China. There is no escaping its fate as a legitimate Chinese city. Whatever democratic concessions that can be won now will at best be temporary.

Fourth, if one remembers the Tiananmen Square incident, a worry is that any further escalation in the protest may force China’s hand. Drastic action by the central government may result in violence and loss of life.

The protest is premature and unnecessary. Whether the vetting committee will be biased or not is still a question.

Between a committee to screen nominees for the Chief Executive election, with citizens voting directly, and the present situation of a 1,200-strong committee electing the Chief Executive, I think Hong Kong residents will be better off with direct elections in 2017.