China's top legislator stresses full implementation of 'patriots administering Hong Kong' principle

BEIJING -- China's top legislator Li Zhanshu on Tuesday stressed full implementation of the basic principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong" to ensure lasting stability and prosperity in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

Chinese lawmakers on Tuesday voted unanimously to adopt the amended Annex I and Annex II to the HKSAR Basic Law, which concern the methods for the selection of the HKSAR Chief Executive and the formation of the HKSAR Legislative Council and its voting procedures, respectively.

Li, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said the passing of the NPC decision on improving the electoral system of the HKSAR earlier this month and the two amended annexes adopted Tuesday fully demonstrate the resolution and common will of the Chinese people, including Hong Kong compatriots, in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests as well as the constitutional order of the HKSAR.

A democratic electoral system suiting Hong Kong's legal status and reality has taken shape as a result of the amendments, said Li while presiding over the closing meeting of the 27th session of the Standing Committee of the 13th NPC.

The improved electoral system has reconstructed the Election Committee of the HKSAR and given it more powers, Li noted.

While the Chief Executive of the HKSAR will continue to be elected by the Election Committee, the amendments however adjusted and improved the size, composition and formation process of the committee.

Besides, the Election Committee has been entrusted with the new functions of electing a relatively large share of Legislative Council members and directly participating in the nomination of all candidates for the Legislative Council.

The improved electoral system has also put in place and improved a candidate eligibility review mechanism, Li added.

These new constitutional arrangements are of great significance to upholding the constitutional order in the HKSAR as established by the Constitution and the HKSAR Basic Law, and ensuring that the policy of "one country, two systems" remains unchanged, is unwaveringly upheld, and is not bent or distorted in practice in Hong Kong, Li added.

Li said the HKSAR shall amend relevant local laws in accordance with the law in a timely manner, promptly implement matters related to improving the HKSAR electoral system, and organize and regulate relevant election activities as per the law.

With the implementation of the improved HKSAR electoral system and the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong," the central government's overall jurisdiction over the HKSAR will be effectively implemented, Li noted.

This will also markedly enhance the governance efficacy of the HKSAR and effectively address the various deep-seated problems of Hong Kong, he added.