Former financial secretary Antony Leung Kam-chung has said he has high expectations for incumbent financial chief John Tsang Chun-wah. He said that Tsang has a responsibility to unite Hong Kong people.

The two appeared at an event for Food Angel, for which Leung is the chairman. The charity makes meals using edible surplus food. They are both tipped to be running for the Chief Executive position in the election next March.

In a speech, Leung said he hoped the charity could help Hong Kong people unite together: “As to how to unite Hong Kong better, I give this responsibility to minister Tsang.”

John Tsang Antony Leung
John Tsang and Antony Leung. Photo: GovHK.

Leung then said he hoped Hong Kong society can unite to help people in need. He added that he understood the government was working hard, but if society was hugely split, “nothing can be done.”

“That is why I have high expectations for you,” Leung told Tsang.

In response, Tsang said Hong Kong is full of hope. He also addressed the issue of food waste in Hong Kong, which amounts to 3,600 tons per day. He thanked Food Angel for their work, and said the government has been working to reduce waste.

Tsang did not answer further questions from reporters, according to Ming Pao.

Cy leung and john tsang
Leung Chun-ying and John Tsang. Photo: RTHK screenshot.

After the event, Leung told reporters he did not want to talk about politics, but explained his requirements for the next Chief Executive.

“No matter who leads Hong Kong, I hope it will be a person that can better unite Hong Kong,” he said. “Of course the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ principle should be effectively implemented, and [they] should lead Hong Kong to develop the economy and enhance people’s livelihood.”

Sitting Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying has yet to give clear signs that he will run for a second term.

Kris Cheng is a Hong Kong journalist with an interest in local politics. His work has been featured in Washington Post, Public Radio International, Hong Kong Economic Times and others. He has a BSSc in Sociology from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Kris is HKFP's Editorial Director.