The Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau stated today (December 18) that the 2022 Legislative Council (LegCo) Election Committee constituency (ECC) by-election was held successfully in a fair, just, honest, efficient and user-friendly manner.
 
     The Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang Kwok-wai, said, "the voter turnout rate of this by-election was over 90 per cent. Four LegCo ECC members have been elected amongst six candidates from diverse backgrounds and strata. This by-election is the fourth election conducted under the Improved Electoral System and relevant electoral legislation. As in the past, this by-election was held in a fair, just and honest manner."
 
     When preparing for this by-election, the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau, the Electoral Affairs Commission and the Registration and Electoral Office have suitably taken out efficient and user-friendly measures to facilitate Election Committee (EC) members. Measures include setting up special queues for those in need, adopting the electronic poll register system at the ECC polling station and electronic counting, as well as arranging EC members who are subject to isolation or quarantine measures today to cast their votes at the Penny's Bay polling station, etc.
 
     Mr Tsang emphasised, "the Improved Electoral System ensures the implementation of the principle of 'patriots administering Hong Kong' and that the democratic system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) adheres to the principle of 'one country, two systems' and Hong Kong's constitutional status, bringing the society back on track to focus on developing the economy, enhancing people's livelihood, sustaining Hong Kong's long-term stability and prosperity, and achieving good governance. Regardless of one's background, whoever meets the requirements and criteria of patriots, can participate in elections in accordance with the law and serve the Hong Kong public by entering into the governance structure of HKSAR."
 
     He continued, "the new electoral system has established the LegCo ECC, which goes beyond the vested interests of various groups and districts, broadened the representation in the political structure of Hong Kong, thereby enhancing the HKSAR’s governance efficiency. The Government hopes that the newly elected LegCo members can exemplify the broad representation, political inclusiveness, balanced participation and fair competition of the new electoral system."
 
     Lastly, Mr Tsang thanked all EC members for casting their vote despite the cold weather. Together with the elected LegCo members, the HKSAR Government will shoulder the important responsibility of participating in the governance of Hong Kong, protect the sovereignty, security and development interests of our country, and also enhance the effectiveness of the HKSAR's governance for the benefit of all Hong Kong people under the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong".

Ends/Sunday, December 18, 2022
Issued at HKT 13:30

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