Selective democracy - Hong Kong prepares to choose its leader
Hong Kong is set to elect its chief executive amid a growing anti-China sentiment. Pro-democracy activists, who have been campaigning for a public vote, have dubbed the process "farce," as it is controlled by Beijing.
Beijing's favorite
Hong Kong's 3.8 million registered voters have no say in the election of the chief executive, who will be chosen by an election committee. Hong Kong's former deputy leader, Carrie Lam (center), is seen as Beijing's favorite for the job. Her rivals are John "Pringles" Tsang (left), and Woo Kwok-hing (right). Analysts say they are unlikely to win due to a lack of Chinese endorsement.
Search for a likeable leader
Leung Chun-ying, the current chief executive, said he would not seek a second term in office after his tenure ends on June 30. He is a deeply polarizing and highly unpopular figure in Hong Kong, especially among the anti-Beijing pro-democracy activists. It's speculated that he is not running in the election because Beijing wants to replace him with a likeable leader.
Beijing pulls the strings
Despite mass protests against his leadership, Leung has so far refused to step down. The ruling Communist Party in Beijing has repeatedly reiterated its support for Hong Kong's embattled leader. Beijing has also stressed its right to pre-approve a small number of candidates that are allowed to appear on a ballot to elect the former British colony's next chief executive.
'One country, two systems'
Hong Kong has enjoyed a special status since its return to China in 1997. The city enjoys a relatively freer press and its denizens can engage in political activities. Politically, however, Beijing wants to keep the city's reins in its control. The Chinese authorities are critical of any pro-democracy protests, calling them "illegal" and a "threat to social peace."
Pre-selected candidates
In 2014, mass protests erupted in Hong Kong following the announcement by Chinese authorities that they would tightly control the nomination of candidates for the 2017 election. Beijing allows only pre-selected candidates to run for the election of the metropolis' leader. This means that the nomination of candidates who are critical of the central government is effectively excluded.
Anti-China sentiment
Hong Kong witnessed renewed protests after Beijing expressed objections to two lawmakers who wore anti-China banners during their oath-taking ceremony in October, last year. China's top legislative body, The National People's Congress Standing Committee, called Baggio Leung and Yau Wai-ching's actions "a grave threat to national sovereignty and security."
Rebel lawmakers
In November last year, a Hong Kong court disqualified Baggio Leung and Yau Wai-ching after they used anti-China insults when they were being sworn into office. The decision had been preempted by Beijing after it circumvented Hong Kong's courts to hand down its own interpretation of the Basic Law. Beijing ruled that Hong Kong legislators must swear allegiance to the region as part of China.
Unity and authority
Analysts say that irrespective of the election outcome, pro-independence sentiments will continue to gain momentum in Hong Kong. Two years ago, massive pro-democracy rallies organized by the "Umbrella Movement" were able to shut down parts of the city for weeks. Beijing has been keeping an eye on Hong Kong's political scene, fearing that the new developments could harm its unity and authority.