Leung Chun-ying's failed election rival Henry Tang Ying-yen has been keen to comment on the government's recent controversies - from weighing in on the call for an explanation of why Hong Kong Television Network (HKTV) was denied a free-to-air television licence, to criticising Leung for bungling his talks with Philippine President Benigno Aquino, due to his "lack of experience". While some have speculated as to why, a source acquainted with Tang believes it is because the former chief secretary still feels "bitter" about losing his bid for the top job 19 months ago. The source added: "Tang would rather win the top job and endure all kinds of criticism himself than be content about Leung leading the city." Yet, the source was less optimistic about Tang as chief executive. "He is not a 'political' person. Although he appointed pan-democrats into different advisory bodies during his tenure, which Leung hardly did, Henry is someone who believes money can solve everything."
The free-to-air TV licence controversy has turned the city upside-down over the past week. While the government is preparing to cross swords with failed applicant HKTV's Ricky Wong Wai-kay, very few in the city know that the former director of broadcasting at RTHK, Franklin Wong Wah-kay, has just joined TV giant Television Broadcast Limited, Wong's rival. Although Franklin Wong is now in the "opposite" camp, he is still brave enough to show support for HKTV. "The government should reveal the rationale behind its decision [in granting licences]," he said. "People have high expectations of HKTV and I hope they will keep going." But he also cited Singapore's broadcasting industry as an example, saying that while introducing competition to the TV market might raise wages, it won't guarantee good quality shows.
