Opinion | Beijing sends a signal on Macau governance, anti-corruption focus
The apparent anointment of judge Sam Hou-fai to follow Ho Iat-seng as chief executive puts to rest any remaining illusions over the political influence of the city’s four dynasties
Political eyes have been focused on Macau for the past few months. And, last week, as one strong and apparently anointed candidate put themselves forward for the city’s top job, the suspense hanging over the chief executive election race lifted.
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Current Chief Executive Ho Iat-seng’s term ends in December, but speculation was rife before he officially announced on August 21 that he would not seek a second term. Ho had not previously given any indication whether he would run again, but close sources had said he would do so, following the August 11 election of the Chief Executive Election Committee.
That would not have been surprising, as both of his predecessors served two consecutive five-year terms. However, Ho’s potential run for re-election was contentious given that he had taken extended leave outside Macau. His sojourn – lasting 39 days between June and July – raised eyebrows as the chief executive election will take place on October 13.
Ho’s extended leave of absence left many questions over whether he could take on another term. In announcing he would not seek re-election, Ho cited unspecified health reasons. Following the announcement, the presumed candidate-apparent – Sam Hou-fai, president of Macau’s Court of Final Appeal – swiftly indicated his interest in the job.
After submitting his resignation from Macau’s top court, Sam formally announced his candidacy with strong political backing. His campaign office is headed by legislator Ip Sio-kai, who also chairs the Macau Association of Banks. Chan Ka-leong, a member of the Executive Council and leader of the General Union of Neighbourhood Associations of Macau, is deputy campaign leader.
Macau Chief Executive Ho Iat-seng greets the media at his office on June 17. Photo: Eugene Lee
It was a short process for Sam to consider throwing his hat into the ring, talk it through with his family, withdraw from his post as a judge and assemble his campaign office. Questions have already been raised over whether a judge is best suited to take on the role of leading Macau for the next five years. While Sam is trying to answer questions over his qualifications, whether the people of Macau find him convincing remains to be seen.
