Tsang has not decided whether to cast his vote in the May 16 by-election

Chief Executive Donald Tsang repeated calls for lawmakers to support the 2012 electoral reform package at the Legislative Council (LegCo) question and answer session Thursday. Given that the Central Government has made gestures and affirmed its support for the universal suffrage timetables, Tsang urged lawmakers to move democratic development in Hong Kong forward by responding in good faith.

Asked whether he would cast his vote in the LegCo by-election on May 16, he said he has yet to make the decision. Once he has made up his mind, he will inform the public, he said, adding he will not pressure principal officials and civil servants about voting.

"We must step out of skepticism and mutual distrust. Today we must no longer focus on short-term and personal gain. It is time for us to make practical and solid efforts in the spirit of mutual understanding and accommodation, as well as the public good. Step by step, we can build the foundation for mutual trust and arrive at our common destination of universal suffrage," Tsang said

"Various opinion polls also tell us that far more people support than oppose the 2012 package," he said.

"If the 2012 electoral package is carried, it will definitely bring a lot of good and no harm, as the passage will enhance the mutual trust between the Central Government, the SAR government, the Legislative Council and the citizens," he declared.

The chief executive said the 2012 package is more democratic than the current electoral method and it is not in conflict with the pursuit of a more democratic LegCo election in 2016.

Fredrick Fung, a member of the Alliance for Constitutional Development, which comprises moderates of the opposition camp who are not taking part in the so-called "referendum", requested that Tsang arrange a dialogue with the Central Government.

China Daily

(HK Edition 05/07/2010 page1)