HKU president slams rumor mongers, refutes misconduct allegations

The management of the University of Hong Kong (HKU) was entangled in internal conflicts as the university council set to convene a special meeting to discuss the misconduct allegations against the president, while the president asked to attend the meeting with the legal team to guarantee that he will be fairly treated.

The turmoil came after HKU president and vice-chancellor Zhang Xiang was accused of intervening in the selection process of the dean of the Faculty of Medicine as well as the pro-vice-chancellor of the university, according to some local reports. 

Zhang was also blamed for having used school funds inappropriately during the renovations of the university's facilities and bypassing the school council when handling certain donations, as reported by some local media.

It was learned that the university council decided to hold a special meeting on Tuesday (Oct 3) to discuss the accusations, while Zhang requested a postponement of the proposed meeting for 4 to 6 weeks through his legal representatives for sufficient time to grasp the relevant factual background and seek legal advice.

Zhang also issued a statement at around midnight on Tuesday, slamming the rumor mongers for leaking the confidential documents and internal information of HKU. He also regards the organized and intentional accusations as "serious defamation" and has consulted his legal team for further actions.