CUHK newly elected student union resigns, citing pressure from university

Newly elected student union leaders at the Chinese University of Hong Kong have today announced their decision to step down, citing political pressure from the university.

Issac Lam Yui-hei, president of the student union cabinet known as “Syzygia,” make the announcement along with his fellow cabinet members, saying they have been under increasing political pressure from CUHK’s management.

“University top brass has made clear that they will not recognize our cabinet, saying if we refuse to step down, other student bodies may also be affected,” said Lam.

He also added that after they have withdrawn their election manifesto and other campaign materials, they have since lost authorization from their voters.

“It would only be appropriate for us to resign in order to bear responsibility, not being able to honor our promises.”

The group last Wednesday won the election to become the next student union executive committee, receiving 3,983 votes in favor and 41 against in an election with a 23 percent record turnout.

Hours after the group won the election to become the next student union executive committee, CUHK’s management in a statement Thursday evening reiterated objections to the group’s election platform.

The university said it would stop collecting fees on behalf of the student union, stop providing venues for its activities, withhold administrative support, suspend its members from their positions on all university committees, and require it to register as an independent body and assume legal responsibility for itself.

It said it would also take further action “if deemed necessary.”