Small Circle, Entrenched Interest: The Electoral Anomalies of Hong Kong Deputies to the National People’s Congress
Hong Kong Law Journal, Vol. 37, p. 579, 2007
Posted: 11 Jul 2009
Date Written: July 9, 2009
Abstract
Theoretically, Hong Kong deputies to the National People’s Congress (NPC) represent the interests of Hong Kong people in China’s highest organ of state power. The Central Authorities, through the Standing Committee of the NPC, exert a tight control over the electoral process in Hong Kong by making electoral rules, limiting the scope of eligible voters, and by utilising other formal and informal control mechanisms. Yet, a degree of autonomy in the electoral process produces results different from those expected by the Central Authorities. This article argues that the 'small circle' election creates opportunities and incentives for developing special interests. Gradually, these special interests become entrenched and develop a life of their own.
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