Lawmakers with poor performance face tough re-election bids: sources

Underperforming lawmakers may face great challenges securing another term during the Legislative Council (LegCo) election scheduled for late this year, sources indicated.

This came as Hong Kong delegates to China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) and members of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) were reportedly invited to private meetings during the annual Two Sessions to share their views on the upcoming LegCo election.

Senior Beijing officials such as vice premier Ding Xuexiang who oversees Hong Kong affairs, and Xia Baolong, the director of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, had earlier voiced the need to elect candidates who are “patriotic, competent and virtuous.”

Sources said the private meetings allowed delegates to speak candidly, with some praising the current LegCo for its efficiency in passing major legislation, such as the national security law.

However, concerns were raised about lawmakers with low visibility or poor performance, with some suggesting they may struggle to secure reelection.

“Some lawmakers, especially newcomers, simply repeat leaders’ speeches or policies without offering innovation or practical suggestions,” one representative was quoted as saying.

Others reportedly expressed concerns about certain lawmakers prioritizing social media visibility over substantive contributions, describing their efforts as "attention-grabbing but shallow."

The discussions also highlighted the need for fresh talent in the legislature as some suggested reducing the number of lawmakers from the current 90, arguing that the political landscape has shifted, leaving fewer opportunities for new lawmakers to shine.

"If you ask the public, how many can name even three new lawmakers? This shows the system needs re-evaluation," a CPPCC member reportedly said. 

However, sources indicated that any reduction in seats is unlikely in the near term.

Another topic was the overlapping roles of lawmakers who also hold national positions, such as NPC or CPPCC members.

Some argued that these dual roles help bridge Hong Kong and mainland policies while others called for more opportunities for new faces to enter politics. 

"Authorities are aware that some lawmakers are underperforming or even embroiled in scandals, which doesn’t align with the expectations of a high-quality legislature," a CPPCC member said. 

"These individuals will face significant challenges in seeking another term."

(Ayra Wang)