John Lee To Run In Chief Executive Election

Former Chief Secretary John Lee has formally announced he will stand in the Chief Executive election, according to a press invitation for a news conference for 2.30pm on Saturday.

The announcement comes after Xinhua announced that the State Council has officially accepted his resignation and relieved him of his duties.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Lee thanked Hong Kong people for giving him the chance to serve them for more than four decades.

"I have been taking part in different positions which provided me with a lot of valuable experience, knowledge and abilities. It has also broadened my vision," he said, adding that he will hold a press conference on Saturday to lay out his upcoming plans.

"I thank Hong Kong and the people of Hong Kong for allowing me to serve Hong Kong in the past 45 years. I shall continue this passion to proceed on the way that I shall be proceeding."

Lee did not respond to questions on whether he's the only one blessed by Beijing to run for the SAR's top job, or whether he's making progress in terms of forming his future cabinet.

The city's former number-two official tendered his resignation on Wednesday, saying he intends to join the top leadership race.

Meanwhile, Kathy Siu, the political assistant to the chief secretary, has resigned with immediate effect.

In a statement, a government spokesman thanked Siu for her contributions and expressed well wishes for her future endeavours.

However, it did not make public her reasons for leaving the post.

______________________________