Hongkongers headed to the polls Sunday in a Legislative Council (LegCo) election seen as a test of public sentiment after a devastating residential fire that has left nearly 160 people dead and fueled widespread anger over building safety and government accountability. The government has mounted an extensive campaign urging residents to vote in the second LegCo election since Beijing's 2021 overhaul of Hong Kong's electoral system, which ensures only candidates loyal to China can run. All contenders have been vetted for "patriotism." A total of 161 candidates are competing for 90 seats in the legislature. Authorities have flooded the city with posters, perks and giveaways in an attempt to counter voter apathy. Voters receive a "thank you card" redeemable for shopping vouchers, beauty services and medical check-ups. Free entry to museums and swimming pools, neighborhood carnivals and even a televised gala have been organized to boost turnout. The official theme tune is adapted from a 2001 Cantopop hit by Aaron Kwok. Chief Secretary Eric Chan said the incentives were designed to create "a happy and festive mood" and highlight the importance of the election. But the campaign is overshadowed by grief and public frustration following the 26 November fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po — Hong Kong's deadliest blaze in more than 70 years. The death toll stands at 159 and is expected to rise as recovery efforts continue. Many are questioning whether the tragedy could have been prevented, especially given that large numbers of residents live in similarly aging high-rise buildings. Authorities have arrested 13 people on suspicion of manslaughter, ordered the removal of scaffolding mesh across all building renovation sites and launched an independent investigation. Officials say defective flame-retardant mesh and flammable exterior materials contributed to the fire's rapid spread. Police have also moved to quell dissent, detaining at least three people — including a former district councillor — after a petition calling for an independent inquiry into the tragedy was circulated online. The petition has since been removed from the internet. Political campaigning for the election was suspended immediately after the fire, though government-run debate forums have resumed. All election-related carnivals were canceled. Chief Executive John Lee insisted the vote proceed as scheduled, saying Hong Kong "must move forward before we can turn our grief into strength." John P. Burns, a Chinese politics expert at the University of Hong Kong, said the government may interpret a high turnout as public acceptance of the reshaped political system. But he expects turnout to remain low — partly due to the fire, and partly because pro-democracy voters, historically the largest voting bloc, have been effectively barred. Mobilizing pro-establishment supporters may also be difficult, he said, as some remain "disappointed, even angry" over governance failures exposed by the blaze. Hong Kong's national security office has reposted commentary urging residents to vote to show support for reconstruction efforts. "If you truly love Hong Kong, you should sincerely vote," it said. This year's LegCo election will feature many new faces, with about a quarter of incumbent lawmakers stepping down. Local media report Beijing urged several older legislators to retire, including Regina Ip, the former security chief known as the "Iron Lady." — Agencies
