Lawmakers’ departure from LegCo a normal generational transition, says John Lee

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said on Tuesday that it is “normal” for personnel changes to occur in any organization, commenting on a wave of lawmakers announcing they will not seek re-election in the upcoming Legislative Council (LegCo) polls.

Speaking ahead of his weekly Executive Council meeting this morning, Lee said lawmakers choosing not to run come from “different age groups and have various reasons,” stressing that he respects their personal decisions.

Over the past weeks, multiple sitting legislators — including seven aged over 70 — have revealed plans to step down, marking one of the most significant waves of retirements since the LegCo’s latest term began in 2022.

Lee said generational succession is a positive sign for the legislature’s development.

“The continuation of LegCo’s operation through generational change is a good thing,” he said, adding that it allows new talent to emerge, passing the torch and giving different people the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities and contribute to society.

He also said people of different ages can all make meaningful contributions, encouraging “patriotic and capable” individuals who love Hong Kong to step forward and take part in the election.

Some of the lawmakers who announced they will not seek re-election also serve as members of the Executive Council.

Lee clarified that the situation in LegCo differs from that of the Executive Council, whose term runs concurrently with that of the current administration.

“The Executive Council’s term ends in June 2027, and as of now, no member has indicated an intention to resign before the end of the term,” he said.