Hong Kong's anti-graft agency chief pledges to crack down on people calling on others to cast blank votes in elections

Hong Kong's anti-graft agency chief said on Saturday that authorities will crack down on those who urge people to cast blank votes in elections, including those who relayed the message.

Speaking on a TV program, ICAC Chief Danny Woo Ying-ming, said the anti-graft body will strictly enforce the Elections (Corrupt and Illegal Conduct) Ordinance in the upcoming District Council elections.

He said no complaints have been received since the nomination period has commenced.

Woo noted that since Hong Kong has revamped its electoral system, all 10 people charged with violating the Elections Ordinance have been convicted, which he believed has sent a clear message that any actions to sabotage the elections - including asking people not to vote or cast an invalid ballot in elections - are illegal.

Meanwhile, Woo said the agency will establish the Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption next year. Two floors at the agency’s North Point headquarters, as well as the training camp in Tuen Mun, will be utilized as school campuses.

He said the academy will organize training for anti-corruption professionals from around the world, as well as for the public and private sectors in Hong Kong, with an aim of organizing 20 overseas and 10 local courses next year for some 2,000 people.