Editorial | HKU power struggle can be resolved by setting up task force
- Long-running dispute between leading officials does nothing for reputation of a top Hong Kong university that is also among best in the world
A highly public power struggle between the head of the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and its governing council has been dragging on for the best part of a year with no resolution in sight.
Accusations of misconduct, skipped meetings and excessive travel have been levelled at the president of the city’s oldest university, who in turn has accused the council of carrying out a surprise reshuffle without consulting him.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, who is also HKU chancellor, rightly intervened in the dispute, meeting more than once with the university head and its council chairwoman as infighting continued to escalate. It is understood that the idea of setting up a task force is now seriously being considered by the government.
This is a wise move and authorities should not hesitate. It should work independently and swiftly, and offer a clear way forward that will put the matter to rest once and for all.
The past 10 months have seen Xiang Zhang, HKU president and vice-chancellor, accused of misconduct in September, then cleared of wrongdoing by an independent panel in April. A surprise reshuffle by the council, chaired by Priscilla Wong Pui-sze, came in May. Zhang vowed to fight.
