New DAB chairman to remain in Exco

Chan, an Executive Council and Legislative Council member replaces Starry Lee Wai-king, who opted not to seek reelection as chairwoman of Hong Kong’s largest party after being at the helm for eight years.

Lawmakers Brave Chan Yung, Holden Chow Ho-ding and Chan Hok-fung were reelected vice chairmen, with lawmakers Ben Chan Han-pan and Elizabeth Quat Pui-fan as new vice chairmen.

After the party elected its new leadership yesterday, Gary Chan said the party has four major tasks to accomplish – self-improvement, building Hong Kong, serving the country and connecting with the world.

That includes improving party members’ political, theoretical and policy-advocacy skills, as well as cultivating talents.

“Furthermore, the DAB is committed to enhancing the [delivery] of good governance, therefore the party will not be one that only stops at giving suggestions or criticisms, but one that will assist the government in implementing and localizing its policies,” he said.

Chan said he will remain an Exco member unlike his predecessor Lee, who resigned from the Exco after being elected party chairwoman in 2015. Lee then said she did not want citizens to think the DAB was the same as the government.

Chan said: “As party chairman, I can better bring the voice of citizens from different social classes to top SAR government officials and reflect citizens’ opinions better.”

“DAB is on the same page with the government in terms of our vision in developing the economy and improving citizens’ livelihood. Being in the Exco as a party chairman will also strengthen the relationship between the party and the government,” he added.

He said that the party is fully committed to sending as many excellent candidates in the upcoming District Council elections.

After the reform of the electoral system, district council election candidates will have to obtain nominations from three committees within the district – district fight crime committee, area committee and district fire safety committee – – which are all under the Home Affairs Department and filled with pro-government politicians.

Asked whether he will provide contact information of committee members to pro-democracy hopefuls, Chan said all members of the new DAB leadership have participated in elections before, and they have to obtain their own nomination by themselves.

“We will not spoon-feed anyone, and those who have been serving the district for a long period of time should know people from the three committees within the district. I do not think they will have a hard time obtaining nominations.”