China's State Council on Tuesday (Jan. 27) announced the removal of Erick Tsang from the post of secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government. The decision was made in accordance with the relevant provisions of the HKSAR Basic Law and the suggestion of HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee, according to the State Council.
Chief Executive John Lee stated before attending the Executive Council meeting on the morning of Jan. 27 that earlier, Erick Tsang had submitted his resignation as Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs due to health reasons. After detailed discussions and understanding his situation, and in accordance with Article 48 of the Basic Law, he recommended to the Central People's Government that Erick Tsang be removed from the post of Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs.
John Lee pointed out that during his tenure as Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Erick Tsang had been responsible for leading the bureau in promoting the connection, cooperation, and development between the SAR and the mainland, coordinating the SAR government's implementation of the national 14th Five-Year Plan, coordinating various policy bureaus in advancing and participating in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area development, strengthening communication and liaison with the mainland, promoting commerce, trade, and investment, and handling the SAR's policy affairs related to human rights, among other duties. In addition, the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau also supervised the Registration and Electoral Office, cooperating with the Electoral Affairs Commission to successfully and smoothly conduct several important elections.
John Lee expressed his gratitude for Erick Tsang's contributions to the government's work and said he understood his health condition. He wished him good health and all the best. He added that a successor would be identified. In the interim, Deputy Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Clement Woo will act as the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs.
Before attending the Executive Council meeting in the morning, John Lee stated that Erick Tsang had resigned for "health reasons." Erick Tsang explained that since his appointment by the central government as Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs in April 2020, he had been dedicated to performing his duties and serving the SAR and its citizens over the years. However, under the high-intensity workload, his health had gradually deteriorated.
Erick Tsang noted that his prostate cancer index had been rising, with his PSA value consistently exceeding 11. During this period, he underwent various examinations, including ultrasounds, MRI scans, and biopsy procedures, and took medication regularly, but his condition did not improve. After discussions with his family and doctors, he believed the best course of action at present was to step down from work, reduce stress, and focus on recuperating. Therefore, after completing the tasks related to the Legislative Council election, he carefully considered and ultimately decided to submit his resignation to the Chief Executive.
Erick Tsang expressed his gratitude to the central government, the SAR government, and the Chief Executive for their trust, support, and guidance over the years, as well as to all sectors of society for their support and cooperation. He stated that if given the opportunity in the future, he still hopes to contribute to society in different roles or areas.
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State Council announces removal of HKSAR Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs
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