Hong Kong presses ahead with December 7 election

Hong Kong's government will press ahead with a legislative election scheduled for Sunday, despite doubts over turnout from a local population still reeling from the Chinese-run city's deadliest fire in decades that has killed at least 156 people.



The vote is seen by some analysts and residents as a test of legitimacy for the Hong Kong government as it tries to appease public anger over the fire amid an ongoing national security crackdown.



Analysts expect a heavy police presence and low turnout for Sunday's poll, the second since wide-ranging electoral reforms ensuring only pro-Beijing "patriots" could run for office were launched in 2021, after pro-democracy protests in 2019 that roiled the city.



According to Chief John Lee "We must take a long-term view, move forward firmly, and steadily advance the normal functioning of society,"



He also added "We must move forward before we can turn our grief into strength."



Government-organised election forums resumed Wednesday, after having been suspended since the fire last week.



They are a rare space for candidates to debate policy and interact with the public. Political campaigning remains suspended.