HKJA Slams Official Version Of CE's Media Briefing

The Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) says it’s extremely regrettable that the official transcript of top officials’ late night media standup had omitted several reporters’ questions directed at Chief Executive Carrie Lam.

The association noted that journalists had asked four questions on whether Lam felt the lack of response on the part of the government and herself had led protesters to “be ready to die” for their demands; and whether she could face up to the parents of three people whose suicides are linked to the anti-extradition movement.

A reporter also asked whether she still stood by her statement – made years ago – that there’s a place reserved for her in heaven, or whether she thinks she’s going to hell in light of the three suicides.

Lam did not answer any of these questions.

The association's chairman, Chris Yeung, demanded an explanation for the transcript’s omissions, saying seriously undermined the public’s right to know.

"It's equally important for the public to know what questions the Chief Executive had not answered or had sidestepped. So that the public can make a judgement on why those questions were not answered," he said.

The association noted the meet-the-media session was held at 4am, and most people would not be able to get access to the entire session, and the transcript was the only one official record of it.

The association said even if officials did not answer some questions, the government cannot omit them at will.