Filibuster betrayal to voters

Legislature is a key institution in the practice of democracy. But the few radical legislators making use of brazen filibustering maneuvers to block the passage of the budget bill has not only worked against the essence of democracy - majority rule - but also betrayed voters.

The protracted filibuster has worked against the desire of the majority of lawmakers to pass the bill in time, to the detriment of society. This is a vivid example of the tyranny of the minority.

Ironically, those filibustering the budget are exactly those who call themselves "pan-democrats", who have been most vocal about social injustices. Their actions in blocking the passage of the budget, which is threatening the normal operation of the government and will prevent the release of financial relief to the poor and the inflation-pressured middle class, have demonstrated that it's political agenda - rather than livelihood and the well-being of people - that tops their priority.

Residents, particularly those who voted for these duplicitous politicians, should keep in mind the rascality staged in the legislative chamber, which is not only a bold betrayal but also an abuse of duty and taxpayer money. This rude filibustering maneuver has also caused damage to the reputation of the Legislative Council (LegCo).

Submission or concession by the government will not only serve as an encouragement to these radical legislators to resort to further rude endeavors at will, but also set a bad precedent for other radicals to follow suit in whatsoever appeal and for whatsoever purpose.

For the sake of society, the president of LegCo should terminate the filibuster in due course before it eventually causes a "fiscal cliff" crisis that will bring chaos to society and inflict hardship on our innocent residents.

The author is a current affairs commentator.

(HK Edition 05/10/2013 page1)