Hong Kong Votes Amid Outrage Over Deadly Apartment Fire — Turnout Seen As Test Of Government

Hong Kong Holds Legislative Election Days After Deadly Blaze

Hong Kong voters cast ballots on Sunday in the territory's second legislative election since a 2021 overhaul that effectively sidelined the pro-democracy opposition. The vote came less than two weeks after an apartment fire that authorities say killed at least 159 people, making turnout a barometer of public sentiment about the government's handling of the tragedy.

Participation dropped sharply in the 2021 election to about 30% after the changes to the system; analysts warned that anger over accountability for the fire could reduce turnout further. City leader John Lee urged residents to vote, saying a strong turnout would help "promote reforms" and pledged to bring proposals to the new legislature to support victims, many of whom remain homeless.

Campaigning, Government Push And Scrutiny

Campaigning was suspended immediately after the blaze and remained muted in deference to the victims. Before the tragedy, officials had taken multiple steps to boost participation: extending voting hours, opening additional polling stations, holding candidate forums, and offering subsidies and assistance to older voters and people with disabilities. Authorities also detained individuals accused of posting content that urged others not to vote or to cast invalid ballots.

The deadly fire, at a 1980s-era apartment block undergoing renovations, has prompted scrutiny of regulatory oversight and alleged bid-rigging in building-maintenance contracts. Critics have questioned whether the city's inspection and maintenance regimes were adequate.

"They have all experienced this fire and shared the pain," Lee said of incoming legislators. "They will certainly work with the government to promote reforms, diligently review funding, and draft relevant laws."

New Electoral Structure And Voter Concerns

Under the reworked system, only 20 of 90 Legislative Council seats are chosen by the general electorate. Forty seats are selected by a largely pro-Beijing election committee and 30 represent industry and professional sectors, elected by their respective members. Prospective candidates are vetted to ensure they are considered "patriots" aligned with Beijing, a change that critics say has narrowed genuine electoral choice.

Observers say a further decline in turnout would indicate that even some government supporters are disengaging. John Burns, an honorary professor of politics and public administration at the University of Hong Kong, said turnout will be "a reflection of public sentiment," with some voters motivated to support the government's response and others deterred by the scale of the disaster and questions about systemic failings.

Polling stations closed at 11:30 p.m.

Reporting by Associated Press. Moritsugu reported from Beijing; Chan Ho-him contributed from Hong Kong.