HK Right To Delay CE Poll To Fight Covid: Li Keqiang

Premier Li Keqiang said on Friday that Beijing is following developments in Hong Kong's Covid situation on a daily basis, and it fully supports the SAR government’s decision to postpone the chief executive election.

Speaking at a press conference at the end of the annual “two sessions” in the capital, Li said the coronavirus situation in Hong Kong is serious.

“We have deep concern for the life, health and safety of residents in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong SAR government needs to fulfil its primary responsibility in tackling the situation and the central government will give full support,” he said.

Premier Li said Beijing has "full understanding and support" for the SAR government’s decision to postpone the CE election so it can concentrate on dealing with the epidemic.

He said the leadership race, which has been moved from March 27 to May 8, will be held in accordance with the Basic Law.

"We are steadfast in our commitment to fully and faithfully implementing the principle of One Country, Two Systems, under which the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy. Change of government in Hong Kong will happen in strict accordance with the relevant provisions in the Basic Law," Li said.

"We hope that the SAR government will unite and lead people across sectors in Hong Kong to continue to develop the economy, improve people's lives, consolidate and elevate Hong Kong's status as an international financial, trading and shipping centre, and maintain the long-term prosperity and stability in Hong Kong."

Meanwhile, the National People’s Congress has approved a bill on how Hong Kong deputies to the legislative body will be elected.

The bill was supported by 2,751 lawmakers, with three objections and three abstentions.