Hong Kong’s government will press ahead with a "patriots only" legislative election scheduled for Sunday, December 3, despite doubts over turnout from a local population still reeling from the Chinese-run city’s deadliest fire in decades that has killed at least 156 people.

The vote is seen by some analysts and residents as a test of legitimacy for the Hong Kong government as it tries to appease public anger over the fire amid an ongoing national security crackdown.

Analysts expect a heavy police presence and low turnout for Sunday’s poll, the second since wide-ranging electoral reforms ensuring only pro-Beijing "patriots" could run for office were launched in 2021, after pro-democracy protests in 2019 that roiled the city.

"We must take a long-term view, move forward firmly, and steadi

See Full Page