The District Council Election on 10 December was of great significance to Hong Kong, as it was the first large-scale, territory-wide election to be held after the District Councils were reformed. It served as a crucial watershed in improving the structure of district governance and public services while strengthening social development.

The Chamber was pleased to note that over 1.19 million registered electors cast their votes in the election. Greatly revamped and improved, the District Council election system has produced qualified and competent members to contribute to the smooth running and well-being of the districts. The Government has appointed 179 persons who are expected to enhance the advisory and service functions of the district councils. The registration of 27 incumbent Chairmen of Rural Committees as ex officio members has also been confirmed as valid in accordance with the District Councils Ordinance.

As Chief Executive John Lee pointed out, now that the election is behind us, it is time to highlight the constructive outcome and focus on problem-solving and engaging with the community. To that end, the revamped municipal-level bodies will prioritize livelihood issues and various district matters. The elected members will also be readily accessible to the residents and look after their interests.

The Government has said that the performance of all the new District Councillors will be monitored, unlike those elected during the 2019 elections. The new monitoring mechanism that has been introduced will allow citizens to keep tabs on the performance of the councillors during their terms in office. This will ensure that all the elected members provide high-quality services to citizens.

It is very encouraging to note that the new system has seen the appointment of members who hail from a range of sectors, professions and all walks of life. Significantly, the number of representatives from ethnic minority groups has also increased, helping the Government to deliver services to minority communities. This will lead to more resonant connections with the districts while catering to the diverse demographic for which Hong Kong is known.

I have full confidence that the newly elected councillors, who started their four-year term on 1 January, will firmly have a finger on the pulse of their districts and spare no effort in serving the people of Hong Kong. 

As the Government strives to provide services that better address the needs of its people and streamline district-level governance, we must all do our part by working together to maintain the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, and inject new impetus into economic recovery. 

Betty Yuen
[email protected]