CSD Ch4

Political Structure of the HKSAR

Learning Focus

  • Knowledge Objectives:

    • Understand features and functions of Hong Kong's political structure.

    • Learn roles of the Chief Executive and executive authorities.

    • Grasp decision-making processes.

    • Comprehend "patriots administering Hong Kong" principle.

  • Relevant Terms:

    • Executive-led governance, judicial independence, Legislative Council (LegCo), oath-taking, patriotism.

  • Skills Development:

    • Communication, collaboration, critical thinking, analysis.

  • Attitudes and Values:

    • Cherish and respect Hong Kong's governance and political structure under "one country, two systems".

    • Recognize national identity.

Characteristics of the Political Structure

  1. Executive-led System:

    • HKSAR operates under an executive-led government, where distinct branches (executive, legislative, and judicial) have separate powers but coordinate functions.

    • Chief Executive (CE) is dominant, responsible for public policy, budgets, and governance.

  2. Mutual Regulation:

    • Coordination between executive and legislature ensures legislative actions align with executive policies.

  3. Judicial Independence:

    • Courts operate independently from both executive and legislative branches.

Chief Executive

  1. Selection Method:

    • Elected for a 5-year term by an Election Committee, appointed by Central People's Government, with the ultimate goal of universal suffrage.

  2. Powers & Functions:

    • Implementation of Laws: Manage Basic Law, sign bills, oversee government policies and decisions.

    • Appointments: Nominates principal officials and judicial appointments.

Executive Council

  • Comprises official and non-official members, aiding the CE in policy-making. Meetings held weekly for consultation before important decisions.

Legislative Council (LegCo)

  1. Formation Method:

    • Comprised of elected members from various constituencies (40 from geographical, 30 from functional).

  2. Powers and Functions:

    • Enacts laws, approves budgets, engages in public debates.

  3. Operations:

    • Conducts regular sessions, including bills introduction, debates, and public consultations.

Judicial System

  • Courts at all levels maintain independent judicial power, ensuring fair trials and protecting the rule of law.

  • Judges appointed by the CE based on merit.

District Organizations

  • District Councils serve advisory roles on local governance, supporting citizen engagement in administration.

Public Servants

  • Required to take oaths of office, ensuring commitment to serve the HKSAR Government under Basic Law.

Standards for "Patriots Administering Hong Kong"

  1. Nationality Restrictions:

    • Key officials and judges must be Chinese citizens and residents of Hong Kong.

  2. Oath-Taking:

    • Key roles require oaths to uphold the Basic Law.

  3. National Security Law Provisions:

    • Disqualifies individuals with national security convictions from holding public office.