Hong Kong election authorities under fire over system failure disruption to district council poll, as parties demand answers
- Political leaders Regina Ip, Stanley Ng and Priscilla Leung hit out at glitch that prompted extension of voting hours, saying candidates have been affected
- Electoral watchdog chairman David Lok apologises in emotional press briefing, says he is willing to take responsibility for blunder, with John Lee vowing investigation
Hong Kong election authorities have come under fire over a system failure that briefly interrupted Sunday’s district council poll, with pro-establishment parties demanding answers and insisting their candidates have been affected, and other critics questioning the decision to extend voting hours.
Electoral Affairs Commission chairman Mr Justice David Lok Kai-hong apologised to candidates, campaign teams and voters at an emotional press briefing on Monday morning, saying he was willing to take responsibility for the blunder.
“Despite the incident, I hope everyone will not neglect the effort put in by our staff,” he said, choking up as he spoke. “I feel guilty towards our staff who stood fast in their posts.
“On the criteria that the election is fair, honest and accurate, I would say this election was largely successful.”
Lok said the commission would face all criticism seriously, but rejected claims polling hours were extended to boost the turnout rate.
