China pins hopes on Olympic star for 'high quality' Hong Kong democracy

5/11/2025 18:15

An Olympic gold medallist and other younger faces are entering upcoming elections in Hong Kong as China strives to shore up the legitimacy of the city's

legislature even though it vets all prospective candidates.



Beijing loyalists control the Legislative Council (Legco) but state media outlets have indicated that China wants more political talent and competition amongst its allies, with around one-third of the current legislature set to step down including veteran lawmakers from major pro-Beijing parties.



Vivian Kong, 31, a fencer who won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and Howard Chao, 38, the son of real estate tycoon Cecil Chao and a member of China's top political advisory body, are among two openly pro-Beijing residents of Hong Kong who have submitted nominations for the December 7 poll.