Statement by the Hong Kong Coalition to endorse the approval
by the National People's Congress Standing Committee
of the amended Annex I and Annex II to the Basic Law
March 30, 2021
The 27th meeting of the Standing Committee of the 13th National People's Congress unanimously adopted the amendments of Annexes I and II of the Basic Law. The amendments were based on the constitutional order established by the Constitution and the Basic Law and the actual situation in Hong Kong. It is backed by a solid foundation of public opinion and comprehensively guarantees the implementation of "One Country, Two Systems", "Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong", and a high degree of autonomy. It is legal and reasonable, and the Hong Kong Coalition fully supports and champions the NPCSC's revision of the election methods in Hong Kong.
The Coalition believes that the amendments to Annex I and Annex II of the Basic Law at this meeting reflect the sentiment of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 13th National People's Congress. The adjustments made to the Election Committee in the amendment reflects the principle of balanced participation in the Basic Law. It allows the Legislative Council to perform its functions in line with the provisions of the Basic Law and adhere to "One Country, Two Systems", and safeguard the Central Government's right to overall jurisdiction and the authority of the Basic Law. At the same time, the establishment of the Candidate Eligibility Review Committee has fundamentally guaranteed the implementation of the concept of "Patriots Governing Hong Kong", closed the loopholes in Hong Kong's electoral system, and safeguarded the security of national sovereignty. The amended election plan has also improved the governance effectiveness of the SAR Government, strengthened the executive-led system, and laid a solid foundation for the future prosperity and stable development of Hong Kong society.
Finally, we support the SAR government to promptly introduce legislation based on the newly revised Annexes I and II. It would help the SAR Government focus on economic development and people's livelihood and gradually solve society's deep-seated problems. We believe the new election method will create a new era in Hong Kong and allow society to return to a path that leads to a brighter tomorrow.
[2021-03-30]
