The 2023 District Council Ordinary Election held in a peaceful and orderly manner successfully returned a group of highly qualified councilors who are capable and patriotic, and who can be trusted to bring the district councils back on track and better serve the communities. 

The new district council election conducted under the improved electoral system put the “patriots governing Hong Kong” principle into practice, ensuring that the seventh-term district councils will stick to their intended functions and assist the administration to better serve the communities in conformance with Article 97 of the Basic Law, which will contribute to achieving good governance in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the longevity of “one country, two systems”.

The sixth-term district councils were hijacked by anti-China elements after they took control of most district councils in the 2019 District Council Ordinary Election, turning them into platforms for launching activities to obstruct the government and  subvert the establishment, as well as activities that endangered national security.  The district councils under the control of the political agitators completely departed from their intended role as district-level consultative bodies that focus on issues concerning people’s livelihoods

In addition to a patriotism test to screen out undesirable candidates, the new electoral system has introduced a supervision system to monitor the performance of the elected and appointed councilors, which will ensure that only dedicated and capable councilors will stay and serve residents in an effective way. 

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The government departments deserve credit for organizing and operating Sunday’s elections in an efficient way. The ICAC dispatched some 1,000 colleagues to guard the polling stations, and there were sufficient police officers to maintain public order. This ensured that smooth and orderly voting could take place, in adherence with the principles of fairness, justice, honesty, and integrity.

Criticisms from Western countries and politicians who are hostile to China should be viewed with skepticism. Their biased viewpoints often fail to acknowledge the positive developments and improvements in Hong Kong’s electoral system

The voting process was made pleasant, convenient and efficient for voters, including the elderly and disabled. They not only had the opportunity to vote for their preferred candidates who would best serve them in the councils, but also received souvenir cards and could take photos at designated spots, creating a joyful experience for the voters.

“Patriots governing Hong Kong” does not mean exclusivity. The 2023 District Council Ordinary Election was highly competitive, with candidates from diverse backgrounds participating in the race. They competed based on their ideas, political platforms, experience and ability. They also participated in public forums to expound on how to improve people’s livelihoods and address deep-rooted social problems, deepening residents’ understanding and knowledge of them, and allowing voters to have a choice.

Western politicians who are hostile to China have criticized Hong Kong’s new electoral system for screening out candidates from the former opposition camp. But the fact that those aspirants failed to secure the necessary nominations from the three district committees indicates that they need to put in more effort to convince the nominators that they meet the “patriots” requirement.

Some Western politicians and media also highlighted the low voter turnout when commenting on Sunday’s elections. But the voter turnout rate is not the crucial indicator for evaluating the effectiveness of the new elections. The more important indicators are the improvement, effectiveness, and substantive impact on Hong Kong’s politics, stability, governance efficiency, and district administration after the district council reform.

Hong Kong is currently undergoing a significant transition from chaos to governance, and from governance to development. The SAR’s current favorable political situation is attributable to the strong support of the central government. All sectors of society must uphold the principles of the Basic Law, and work together to build a prosperous and stable Hong Kong.

Moving forward, it is essential to strengthen the district councils’ consultative and service-providing functions, ensuring that they serve as a bridge between the government and residents. 

To maintain fairness, justice and transparency in future elections, the SAR government should continue to organize well-planned and orderly election procedures. The participation of organizations such as the ICAC and the police is crucial in upholding the integrity of the electoral process. By providing a pleasant and convenient voting experience for voters, including the elderly and disabled, the government can encourage greater citizen engagement and participation.

It is important to recognize that the district council elections are part of the broader efforts to implement “one country, two systems” in Hong Kong. The principle of “patriots governing Hong Kong” ensures that those who hold public office are committed to safeguarding national security and the well-being of the people. The patriotism test allows for a diversity of candidates while ensuring that they meet the necessary qualifications.

Criticisms from Western countries and politicians who are hostile to China should be viewed with skepticism. Their biased viewpoints often fail to acknowledge the positive developments and improvements in Hong Kong’s electoral system. Candidates who are unable to meet eligibility requirements or who demonstrate a lack of commitment to the well-being of Hong Kong’s residents have only themselves to blame.

READ MORE: Central govt lauds success of HK's District Council election

Challenges may arise, but they should not stop Hong Kong from making progress and positive changes. Hong Kong is on a path of transition, and it is crucial to stay focused on governance, stability, and development. With the support of the central government and the unity of society, Hong Kong can build a better future for its residents.

The author is a law professor, director of the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies, and vice-president of the Hong Kong Basic Law Education Association.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.