Bauhinia Party leader Li Shan says it will take part in 'every aspect' of running Hong Kong

The leader of a recently-formed pro-establishment party, compromised mainly of mainland-born business and financial professionals, said on Monday that the party will take part in “every aspect of Hong Kong’s governance.”

Li Shan, one of the three founders of the Bauhinia Party, said in an interview with RTHK that the party aims to serve all Hong Kong citizens, and that it should not be seen as a threat by other pro-establishment political parties.

“Our party members will definitely participate in every aspect of Hong Kong’s governance in the future,” Li added. “From the Legislative Council, to the election committee, and the governing team of the Hong Kong government.”

Li’s comments follow the announcement of a major overhaul of Hong Kong’s election mechanisms. Beijing’s top legislature is expected to pass a resolution on Thursday to ensure only “patriots” hold power in Hong Kong.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam also said on Monday that the proposed changes were “right in terms of political ethics” to make sure whoever administers Hong Kong is “patriotic.”

In addition, she did not rule out a further delay to the LegCo election which was postponed last year with the government citing Covid-19 fears.

When asked if he would take part in the next LegCo election, Li said that “everything is possible,” but added that taking part in the election is not a priority for him or the party at the moment. Li said his focus at the moment was on building the foundations of the party.

The Bauhinia Party was founded almost a year ago by Sichuan-born banker Li, Clement Chen Jianwen, and Wang Chau-Chi. The party has 13 founding members, most of whom graduated overseas.

Li said the fact that he does not speak Cantonese after living in the city for more than 20 years does nothing to diminish his desire to serve Hong Kong and that he will start learning the language to increase communication with Hongkongers, adding: “Hong Kong is a part of China, I think Hong Kong people should learn more Putonghua.”

Li also denied claims that he is a member of the Chinese Communist Party.

“If you have to ask what colour are we, our colour is patriotism,” said Li.

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