Satisfaction with Legco at halfway mark

Staff Reporter

A survey by local think tank Path of Democracy has found nearly half of respondents dissatisfied with the current Legislative Council.

The poll, conducted by Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, interviewed 1,005 residents in early 2025, finding 48.1 percent dissatisfied with LegCo's performance, while only 29.4 percent expressed satisfaction.

Public satisfaction with the government was split, with 42.3 percent satisfied and 40.9 percent dissatisfied. The survey also found that 60 percent of respondents believe economic prosperity and stability are crucial for the future of "one country, two systems." Scores declined in such areas as "human rights and freedoms" and "high degree of autonomy," while international evaluations of "economic openness" and "financial stability" improved.

Ronny Tong Ka-wah, Path of Democracy convenor and Executive Council member, criticized lawmakers who lacked independent views.

"Some only echo central government positions without offering their own input," Tong said. "This raises public doubts about thorough law examination."

He urged for more capable candidates in the upcoming Legco election to improve governance quality.

Meanwhile, underperforming lawmakers may face challenges in securing another term in this year's Legco election, sources said.

Hong Kong delegates to China's National People's Congress and members of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference were reportedly invited to private meetings during the Two Sessions to discuss the next election. Sources said some praised the current Legco for passing the national security law, while others criticized lawmakers for poor performance or low visibility.