There was a relatively good turnout today for the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong – unfortunately I was not present (since i’m still in Beijing), but was pleased to hear the march mentioned on the BBC World Service.
According to the SCMP an estimated 70,000 participated in the rally – including ex-chief secretary Anson Chan. This is a higher than expected turnout, and only goes to show that the will for change in Hong Kong is still strong. And though change has been promised, a promise with no accompanying timetable is about as trustworthy as a written a testimony from a gorilla.
Joseph Zen was quoted in the SCMP commenting that “Tsang says his proposal is a big step towards full democracy: this is the biggest lie I have heard” – harsh words from a bishop accusing one of his subjects of sinning. He continues to say “We are going sideways. We will go in circles with no direction and a dead end.” At the current rate, we’ll sooner break down than reach our destination.
What was amusing to hear was Donald Tsang, speaking whilst the rally was taking place, saying that he also aspires for universal sufferage and would like to see it implemented within his lifetime. To me, it sounds like he has to try a bit harder: for sure the mainland authorities are not going to be easy opposition to defeat, but if compromise is the name of the game, Hong Kong is definitely drawing the short straw. Tsang has the option now to press ahead with Beijing for more constructive political reform for the territory; the alternative, easy way out, is to just let Beijing pull the strings.
Sadly, when it comes to elections, Donald Tsang seems to have no more finesse than Tung did.