Let Me Be HK's New Conductor: John Lee

Former Chief Secretary John Lee has pledged to adopt result-oriented governance, boost Hong Kong's competitiveness and consolidate the foundation for the city's development, as he formally announced his intention to run in the upcoming Chief Executive election.

Speaking at an online press conference on Saturday, Lee launched his campaign with the slogan "Starting a New Chapter for Hong Kong Together".

He said his decision to run is made out of his loyalty to the country, love for Hong Kong and his sense of duty to Hong Kong people.

The coming five years will be key for the SAR to move from peace to prosperity, Lee said, and he hopes to build a Hong Kong that's energetic, happy, open, united and peaceful.

"This new chapter will be a new symphony. Being the conductor, each member will be able to leverage his or her strengths to create the synergy effect ... Together, we will play a more splendid new piece for Hong Kong,"he said.

Asked about his lack of experience in commerce, Lee said no one is a "know-it-all".

"There may be only one person who can do this... God. Nobody will know everything but what is important is that the Chief Executive should build a team... which will be including all the expertises, knowledges and people who have the passion to do things for Hong Kong... Together we will build a strong government team," he said.

The former city number two also said the fact that he doesn't have a deep relationship with certain sectors mean his government will be fair when handling different issues, with no other burden but Hong Kong's overall interests in mind.

Lee also conceded that there are differences in society, saying mending social rifts is a challenge for any government.

He pledged to walk into the community to hear people's views, saying being sincere is the starting point for communication.

The former minister also sidestepped a question on whether he has been handpicked by the central government to run, saying he would welcome other people to join the race.

He added that communication with Chinese officials is beneficial to Hong Kong.

A CE hopeful must receive at least 188 nominations from Election Committee members, with not less than 15 from each of the five sectors.

Nomination for the CE race runs till April 16, and the 1,500-strong Election Committee will select the city’s next leader on May 8.