Donald Tsang Vows To Clear Name As Jail Term Ends

The former Chief Executive Donald Tsang was released from prison on Tuesday morning after completing a 12-month sentence for misconduct in public office.

Tsang was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital on Friday after complaining of feeling unwell while in Stanley Prison. But as he walked free from the hospital, Tsang said he been there for some check-ups.

He also said he will not give up the fight for justice, and that he is determined to clear his name.

He told a crowd of journalists outside the hospital that he would like to go home to be with his family and lead a peaceful life. He said he was looking forward to having a cup of coffee and a nice chat with his wife.

"From today, I'll be home with my family. I'll be leading a normal and, hopefully, peaceful retired life with my wife. I can resume the routine I've had for decades and go to church every day. My relatives, my friends, and ex-colleagues, and many members of the public in Hong Kong, they no longer have to worry or feel sad about my suffering. So, today, the only thing in my mind is that I feel grateful, very grateful," Tsang said.

"I don't want to talk too much about what the court has to handle, but as you will understand, a Hongkonger, under Hong Kong's rule of law, must be determined in the fight for justice and to clear his name. One mustn't give up on that."

Tsang also said he didn’t want to comment on the Department of Justice’s decision not to prosecute his successor, CY Leung, saying he didn’t want to compare their two cases.

"If you don’t mind I do not wish to compare, because it would rekindle my anger and hatred that were cleared a few months ago after a lot of effort … All I have in mind now is I am very grateful," he said.

He was driven away after making the brief remarks.

Tsang was found guilty of failing to disclose that he was discussing a property rental with businessman Bill Wong, whose company was applying for a digital radio licence at the time.

The Court of Final Appeal will hear Tsang's challenge against his conviction in May.