Nobody Is Our Enemy, Excuse Any Offence: RTHK Chief

Director of Broadcasting Leung Ka-wing issued an open letter on Wednesday urging anyone who has felt offended by RTHK programmes to "pardon" the station, but stressing that nobody in Hong Kong is seen as an "enemy".

In the letter addressed to all staff, Leung noted that in the past two months since he last wrote to colleagues to thank them for their efforts during the city's social unrest and coronavirus pandemic, RTHK has remained in the spotlight, with an abundance of both complaints and commendations.

"Since last August, many complaints were especially linked to the social unrest, some accusing [RTHK] of spreading hatred. This circumstance correlates to the social turbulence and our persevering and exhaustive attitude towards the discussions surrounding these topics," Leung said.

"Commendations, suggestions or complaints, all are gladly welcomed to spur us on. To those who felt offended, we beg your pardon. After all, we serve the whole of society, in which we have never considered any individual or group our 'enemy'," he added.

Leung said all staff must continue to scrupulously comply with RTHK's charter, must not violate the "One Country" principle, and must follow guidelines to ensure fair, just and objective news reports.

"Ninety-two years rooted in Hong Kong, through trials and hardships, RTHK has pressed on in faith, and never once gone back on our original intentions. Fearful not the stormy waters afar, it is the bumpy road lurking ahead."

Just hours before Leung's letter was sent to staff, pro-Beijing legislator Junius Ho called for the public broadcaster to be merged with the Information Services Department, adding that there is no reason for the government to fund the station if it does not serve the government's interests.

As well as drawing the ire of pro-establishment groups over various TV shows touching upon the city's social turmoil, RTHK has also come in for strong criticism from the government, the police and the Communications Authority.

Last month, the police said they would be taking action against the station, warning that they "absolutely do not accept inaccurate or misleading reports and remarks".