Hong Kong democrats’ flip-flop on political reform raises questions about their integrity
Tik Chi-Yuen and Chan Ka Wai say their refusal to compromise on political reform is far from principled, as they adopt such a stance only when it suits them
Will Hong Kong pan-democrats deign to interact with chief executive-elect Carrie Lam?
Their demands – a change of tune from the recent past – are puzzling and frustrating.
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Rather, they should seek to cooperate with Lam to establish an inclusive and transparent government, to move society forward. That is the best way to ensure a more conciliatory style of governance for Hong Kong.
The pan-democrats’ inconsistency is especially galling. Why was rejecting a supposed “C.Y. 2.0” more important than the abolishment of the NPC decision, which they had regarded as a core issue? After they set it aside, why did the issue become crucial again after the election?
The pan-democrats may argue that different tactics are needed at different times. But the fact that they could set aside their demand for political reform showed that the NPC decision need not be a sticking point.
Good politicians should be principled yet flexible. Sometimes, they should bravely give up long-held principles that no longer meet the needs of the time.
The pan-democrats changed their mind about the NPC ruling during the election, only to resurrect it again when it suited them. This raises a question about their integrity. Their inconsistency is disappointing.
Tik Chi-Yuen is chairperson, and Chan Ka Wai chief executive, of the Third Side political party