Carnival spirit for most part despite the slow progress
Pop stars, politicians and public brave heat, rain to denounce Beijing and demand democracy
Marchers turned out in the heat and pouring rain with the usual array of demands, but two key issues predominated: a desire for genuine universal suffrage and for Beijing to keep to its promise of "one country, two systems".
Angered by the State Council's white paper declaring its "comprehensive jurisdiction" over the city, and by the dysfunctional legislature, some also said they would join the overnight sit-in by student activists.
Despite torrential downpours, swarms of protesters continued pouring into the clogged streets through the afternoon and evening.
"The rain will not put me off," marcher Raymond Chan said.
A handful of marchers pushed against police barricades but the rally was largely peaceful, and a carnival atmosphere prevailed.
Artist Kacey Wong and a few others, dressed as police officers and wearing vests bearing the word "politics", held up humorous warning signs mocking police for arresting peaceful protesters at previous rallies.
