Chief Secretary defends ‘sparkless’ LegCo election forums

Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki on Friday dismissed criticism that this year’s Legislative Council election forums lack confrontation and political “spark,” saying the government has no intention of encouraging the kind of mudslinging seen in past debates.

Speaking on a radio program this morning, Chan said that while candidates have exchanged questions and views at the government-organized sessions, the administration does not wish to see forums degenerate into personal attacks or profanity.

“We don’t want the kind of ‘spark’ where people scold each other, swear, or expose each other’s scars,” he said, calling such clashes “not a proper way to debate.”

He added that it is up to candidates themselves to decide their tone and style.

“We cannot tell them, ‘You should be more aggressive,’ or ask them to tone down. This is for them to decide.”

The government will host a total of 39 forums ahead of the December 7 LegCo election — a departure from past elections where media outlets organized most sessions. Some observers have argued that the new arrangements have resulted in tame discussions with little challenge between contenders.

Chan rejected that view, saying the purpose of the forums is to allow candidates to introduce their platforms and articulate their positions, and that “high-level debate” does not require insults. He compared the format to interschool debating, where decorum is still maintained.

Chan also explained that expecting media organizations to run all 39 forums would be unrealistic. Splitting the events among different outlets would also raise coordination issues, he said.

Whether the forums are hosted by the media or by the government, he argued, “there is not much difference,” as rules and format are largely similar. He added in a separate RTHK interview that government-run forums are easier to arrange and more efficient.

On voter turnout, Chan said the administration has not set any target. He said some people have told him that under the “patriots governing Hong Kong” framework, candidates appear similar, prompting the attitude of “anyone will do.” He said this view is misguided, arguing that patriots can still hold differing stances and represent distinct constituencies. He stressed that voter participation is essential for lawmakers to carry a genuine public mandate.

Chan acknowledged that candidates will be elected regardless of whether turnout is high or low, but warned that a lawmaker who “cannot reflect public opinion” would be contrary to what the government hopes to achieve.

Separately, Chan said civil servants should “lead by example” and vote, as failing to do so could raise public doubts about why government employees are not participating. However, he emphasized that authorities have no way of knowing when a civil servant votes or whom they vote for, adding that the government will not pressure anyone to vote and will not check their participation.