Senior Counsel Jose Antonio Maurellet, re-elected as chairman of the Hong Kong Bar Association on Thursday, underscored the legal community’s commitment to upholding judicial independence and professional integrity amid geopolitical uncertainties and the domestic aftermath of the Tai Po fire.
In his acceptance remarks, Maurellet praised Hong Kong’s legal professionals for their continued resistance to the politicization of legal matters.
He said their handling of the high-profile cases under the Hong Kong SAR National Security Law and the recent disputes related to the Tai Po fire have showcased the profession’s dedication to impartiality and the rule of law.
Maurellet said the rule of law must stand above political narratives. “Certain cases in recent years have attracted attention, and it is hoped the public will not apply a political lens to the court’s judgments or the state of our rule of law.
“Courts continue to adjudicate cases independently and impartially, based only on the law and evidence,” he said.
Maurellet said that around 300 legal professionals — many volunteering their time — have been assisting residents affected by the Tai Po blaze.
He added that the HKBA is currently working with the government and will release policy recommendations once the independent committee, led by Justice David Lok Kai-hong, issues its report. Proposals are expected to include legal measures to prevent bid-rigging in building renovation projects.
“Protecting our system and our Judiciary is of fundamental importance because they provide the safeguards for the rights of members of the public and the interests of our society at large,” he said.
Maurellet added that maintaining a balance between consistency and innovation within the HKBA’s leadership will allow it to defend common law principles while adapting to new challenges.
Delivering his speech in both Cantonese and English, he reaffirmed that “renewal and continuity” remain central to the HKBA’s mission.
Founded in 1948, the HKBA has been a steadfast defender of the rule of law throughout periods of geopolitical uncertainty and global scrutiny. It continues to play an instrumental role in nurturing judicial talent — many of the city’s judges, including Chief Justice Andrew Cheung Kui-nung, began their careers as HKBA members.
Maurellet outlined plans to strengthen international engagement to boost global confidence in Hong Kong’s Judiciary, adding that the HKBA will promote greater transparency and dialogue through international outreach and by welcoming more nonpermanent judges from other common law jurisdictions to the Court of Final Appeal.
Anticipating the impact of emerging technologies, Maurellet — an Oxford University graduate and HKBA Chairman since January 2025 — predicted that Hong Kong could soon rival London in arbitration and mediation caseloads. In 2026, the HKBA will launch sector-specific reforms supported by two new working groups — one to review construction law, the other to study the legal implications of artificial intelligence.
Senior Counsels Martin Hui Siu-ting and Eva Sit Yat-wah were re-elected as HKBA’s vice-chairs. Legal commentator Edward Chan described the leaders as a “refreshed yet experienced” team assuming office at a crucial moment, as Hong Kong continues to uphold judicial independence and embrace new opportunities presented by the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Maurellet added that the year ahead will see continued advocacy for barristers and reinforced protection of judicial impartiality, aimed at strengthening Hong Kong’s status as a global legal hub founded on integrity, professionalism, and the rule of law.
Contact the writer at: jessicachen@chinadailyhk.com
