Tough road ahead for Bauhinia Party
- If the new political grouping is to make an impact in Hong Kong it must explain its policies and how it is different from existing Beijing-friendly factions
Little is known of its thinking and approach, making assessment difficult at this stage. But if the party is serious about making a difference, it clearly has much work ahead. From its positioning and manifesto to soliciting public support and running for elected office, a lot needs to be done.
The Bauhinia Party aspires to end the gridlock and address failure in governance, according to Charles Wong Chau-chi, one of its co-founders. This is easier said than done, though. Over the years, political and social woes have deepened, with neither the government nor existing parties able to resolve the deadlock.
The rift aggravated by last year’s social unrest has made the situation even more challenging. The party’s aspirations are no doubt admirable, but they appear a tall order for any newcomer.
This is not the first time a party has opted for the middle ground, but as the political divide deepens, the room for moderates is also shrinking. How it can work with other Beijing-friendly factions remains to be seen. The Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong has the widest district support, while the Business and Professionals Alliance and the Liberal Party have stronger ties with the business sector.
It takes courage and commitment for anyone to come forward in a city with such a unique constitutional order, even more so in the wake of the escalating tension and sensitivity over the past year.
The scepticism and criticism from both ends of the political spectrum are to be expected. But those with dedication and determination should not be dampened by negative feedback. Indeed, the backgrounds and affiliations of core members, some of whom were born on the mainland and educated overseas, may be assets rather than baggage.
They are well established in their fields and have the same rights like anyone else to participate in politics. The road ahead will not be easy. The immediate tasks of the party are to map out a set of well thought-out platforms and to better explain its positioning.
