Hong Kong’s Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang Kwok-wai has been relieved of his duties by the State Council, after he earlier submitted his resignation to Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, citing deteriorating health.

Lee made the announcement during a media briefing before an Executive Council meeting on Tuesday.

The city’ head said that Tsang has served the government for nearly 40 years, and was responsible for the liaison, cooperation and development between the Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland during his tenure as Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs. He was also responsible for handling policy matters concerning human rights in Hong Kong and election-related arrangements, among other duties.

“I am thankful for Mr Tsang's contributions over the years and wish him the best of health and luck in future endeavors," Lee said.

Tsang stated that his prostate cancer indicators had been rising under a heavy workload. Despite active treatment, his condition did not markedly improve, leading him to resign after completing his duties related to the Legislative Council General Election in Dec 2025. Tsang made his decision following discussions with his doctor and family, who agreed that stepping away from work to reduce stress was essential for his health.

He expressed gratitude for the trust of the central and SAR governments over the years, as well as for public support. He also added that he remains willing to serve society in other capacities in the future, if possible.

In an official statement released after the media briefing, authorities said that the chief executive will later appoint a suitable successor to the post. During this period, the Under Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Clement Woo Kin-man will serve as acting secretary.

Tsang joined the Immigration Department as an Assistant Immigration Officer in 1987, where he was promoted to Assistant Director of Immigration and Deputy Director of Immigration respectively in 2012 and 2014, before becoming Director of Immigration in 2016. He was first appointed as Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs in April 2020 and reappointed in July 2022.

During his term as Secretary, Tsang oversaw major electoral changes in the city, including the electoral reforms and the first legislature poll held under the reformed system.  

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui and Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen both expressed concern for their colleague's health after attending the Legislative Council policy briefing on Tuesday morning.  Law said she did not know the full details but hoped Tsang would recover soon. Mak also voiced her concern and wished him receive appropriate treatment and a smooth recovery.

Contact the writer at amberwu@chinadailyhk.com