'Occupy Central' poll a folly

The central government is subject to the Basic Law and hopes that Hong Kong people will also see themselves as subject to the Basic Law and understand that their rights are protected. Indeed the white paper emphasizes that the Basic Law is in force and should be respected. Under the Basic Law, the central government is committed to granting a high degree of autonomy to Hong Kong.

I believe it is important to take all opinion polls seriously, even though the results of polls do not carry any legal weight. I take opinion polls seriously to gauge people's desires. Opinion polls are like marketing surveys; many companies conduct marketing surveys to understand what consumers want. But the concerns of citizens, as reflected in polls, serve only to inform policymakers as to what people need - not how their concerns can be met. How such concerns are addressed is a matter which has to be decided with an understanding of the implications of other alternatives or options available.

The three options for chief executive's nomination on the "ballot sheets" of the "Occupy Central" poll are all illegal. Even if the results of the poll were to show considerable support for an illegal nomination arrangement, it would not make that arrangement legal.

The Shiji (Historical Records) recounts the famous story of Ximen Bao, governor of Yexian county, during the Warring States period (475 BC-221 BC). After solving a problem in the county, which had its roots in ancient superstition, he remarked: "People rejoice when problems are resolved, but they cannot be counted on to find solutions."

This statement could be construed as the governor's disdain for the lack of wisdom shown by the people. But the fact is that self-interest, misguided perceptions and misunderstandings all play a role in preventing the emergence of a workable policy which best serves public interest.

Public interest is the best interest for all in a society. This is what is meant by "Loving the Country and Loving Hong Kong". Public interest is not defined by the ruling elite. It is defined by every individual in the community. Judges as well as officials are supposed to serve public interest. Only in this sense are they expected to love the country and love Hong Kong.

The author is director of the Center for Public Policy Studies at Lingnan University, Hong Kong.

(China Daily 06/28/2014 page5)