Hong Kong leader elections violated democratic principle, says EU

"Election of Chief Executive violates democratic principles and political pluralism in Hong Kong," European Union Foreign Policy chief Josep Borrell tweeted.

"Selection process is yet another step in the dismantling of the 'one country, two systems' principle. Chinese and Hong Kong authorities should abide by their national and international commitments," Borell said in another tweet.

On Sunday, former security chief John Lee became the new leader of Hong Kong, replacing outgoing chief executive Carrie Lam, who served since 2017.

Hong Kong's Election Committee has selected Lee, the sole candidate to the post of Chief Executive.

The Declaration by Borell on behalf of the EU read, "This was the first selection process since the imposition of the National Security Law and the implementation of sweeping changes in Hong Kong's electoral system."

 "Preceding his selection, Lee was vetted by the Candidate Eligibility Review Committee, and nominated by 786 of 1461 members of the revamped Election Committee," it reads.

"The number of voters to the Election Committee was substantially reduced by the electoral overhaul, weakening the already limited democratic elements in the governance of Hong Kong, running counter to the commitments to greater representation enshrined in the Basic Law," it said.

The declaration said EU regretted the violation of democratic principles and political pluralism.

"The EU regrets this violation of democratic principles and political pluralism and sees this selection process as yet another step in the dismantling of the 'one country, two systems' principle," the declaration read.

"The EU attaches great importance to the preservation of Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy as well as respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, including media freedom, democratic principles and the rule of law, in line with the Basic Law and with international commitments," it added.

"The EU calls on Chinese and Hong Kong authorities to abide by their national and international commitments, notably the ultimate aim of electing the Chief Executive and members of the Legislative Council by universal suffrage," said the declaration.

(With UNI inputs)