Record number of people vote in Hong Kong’s district elections

Record numbers of people have voted in Hong Kong’s district elections on Sunday with the total surpassing the 2015 turnout by lunchtime, The Independent (UK) reports. More than 2.7 million people cast their vote as turnout far surpasses previous record in Legislative Council election of 2016, South China Morning Post reports.

The district council historically deals with local livelihood issues, such as traffic and hygiene. But the protests have dramatically elevated their significance, at least symbolically.

The election is being viewed as an important barometer of support for the city’s embattled leader Carrie Lam, after six months of pro-democracy protests which have frequently turned violent.

Residents began heading to the polls in their droves from 7.30am on Sunday morning. They are voting for 452 district councillors, who oversee everyday neighbourhood affairs.

via South China Morning Post / Al Jazeera / The Independent

Discover more from The Dispatch

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading

Verified by MonsterInsights