Controversial weightlifting boss Josephine Ip, who implied Hong Kong, Taiwan are countries, quits ‘with immediate effect’
- Ip had been under pressure after implying Hong Kong, Taiwan were countries during opening remarks at event in the city
- Government says her speech was ‘absolutely unacceptable’ and a ‘suspected violation of the one-China principle’
Controversial weightlifting boss Dr Josephine Ip Wing-yuk, who had twice referred to Hong Kong as a country, has quit as president of the governing body in the city.
In a statement released on Friday, the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC), said Ip had resigned “with immediate effect” as chairwoman of the Hong Kong, China Weightlifting and Powerlifting Association (HKWPA).
The association, meanwhile, said Ip, who was criticised by government officials for her misstep, had left her post for “personal reasons” and would be replaced by vice-chairman Yu Sum-por.
A spokesman for the SF&OC said it noted Ip’s resignation and “respected the decision”. The committee added it would “continue to work hand in hand with all National Sports Associations to jointly promote the development of various sports”.
The HKWPA earlier published a statement of its own, confirming Ip’s decision to leave the organisation.
“Ip Wing Yuk resigned as the chairperson of the Hong Kong, China Weightlifting and Powerlifting Association Limited on May 23, 2024 due to personal reasons,” the statement on its website read. “The work of chairperson will be taken up by first vice-chairman, Yu Sum-por.”
