Hong Kong holds ‘patriots only’ vote amid public outrage over deadly fire

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• This law has led to the imprisonment, resignation, or flight of many prominent pro-democracy figures. More from World Business as usual?
• Hong Kong goes ahead with elections just days after deadly fire that killed 151 'Mood is very heavy right now': Hong Kong likely to witness low voter turnout in polls as residents mourn deadly fireTragedy overshadows the voteThe election campaign was abruptly paused in late November after a blaze tore through the Wang Fuk Court housing blocks, a tragedy believed to be one of the deadliest residential fires globally in decades. Despite the tragedy, Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee insisted the vote must proceed to “maintain stability.” He urged the public to cast their ballots, claiming the vote represented support for reform and the fire victims.
• A somber-looking Lee was seen casting his vote on Sunday. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee casts his vote in the Legislative Council elections in Hong Kong on December 7, 2025.
• (Photo by Peter PARKS / AFP)Quick ReadsView AllUkrainian city hit by ‘massive’ strike as US peace talks wrap upHow Erika Kirk catapulted Turning Point USA into its most profitable era yet“(Your) vote represents a vote that pushes forward reform, and a vote to protect those affected by the disaster,” Lee told reporters after casting his vote. Lee has also announced a judge-led independent committee to investigate the fire, which devastated seven apartment blocks undergoing renovation. Critics point to governance failuresThe deadly fire has triggered public demand for government accountability, with some residents seeing echoes of the pro-democracy protests that roiled the city in 2019. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS ADAlso read | What made fire at Hong Kong apartment building the deadliest in decades?In the aftermath, police have arrested 15 people from construction companies on suspicion of manslaughter.
• However, authorities also reportedly arrested at least three people for sedition for publicly criticising the government’s response. International human rights groups have condemned the election process.