The State Council's Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office has commended outgoing Hong Kong legislators for making way for "new blood" as the nomination period for the city's eighth Legislative Council election began on Thursday.
In a commentary published under the pen name "Hong Kong and Macao Ping," the office warned against interference by "anti-China troublemakers" while praising the political transition.
"The successful holding of this election is of great significance and far-reaching impact for accelerating Hong Kong's transition from order to prosperity and better advancing high-quality democracy suited to Hong Kong's reality," the article stated.
It noted that some members of the current legislature had chosen not to seek re-election to facilitate the transition between generations of patriotic forces, showing "noble spirit and exemplary conduct."
The commentary highlighted broad social consensus supporting the improved electoral system and recognition of the seventh Legislative Council's performance, with expectations that the upcoming election would further demonstrate high-quality democracy.
However, the article cautioned that "anti-China troublemakers have never stopped interfering with and sabotaging elections, and Hong Kong society must remain vigilant against their resurgence."
It recalled how these elements had previously collaborated with external forces to disrupt elections through smear campaigns, misleading polls, and even violent threats before the electoral overhaul.
While the Hong Kong National Security Law and the city's own security legislation have provided legal safeguards against election interference, the commentary warned that "troublemakers and external forces remain unreconciled to their failure and are still waiting for opportunities to act."
The article concluded by expressing confidence that the Hong Kong government would fulfill its responsibility to ensure the election proceeds fairly, justly, safely and orderly, while eligible patriots would compete in high-quality, healthy competition.
