Former Hong Kong police chief urges new district councillors to fulfill duty
By Tang Bo
Asia;
03:29

A landslide victory for opposition candidates in Hong Kong's district council elections hasn't stopped the violence in the city. More than 70 percent of registered voters cast ballots but protests and assaults on residents continued during the first weekend after the vote.

Thousands of Hong Kong people returned to the streets on Sunday a week after the polls. Their rally and march rapidly turned into standoff against police.

Tang Kingshing, a former police commissioner of Hong Kong, said in an interview with CGTN that newly elected district councilors should fully understand their responsibilities and properly perform their duties. They should focus on promoting the livelihoods in their respective districts.

Tang said he was shocked when he saw the video of a resident being hit in the head by a rioter when he was clearing roadblocks. He stressed that people in Hong Kong are free to express their different opinions and voices. However, attacks on people who disagree are unacceptable. 

The former police chief called on Hong Kong residents to call the police when they see illegal activities and let the law enforcement authorities deal with the problems. He expressed his gratitude to residents who want to help, but he stressed that their safety should also be taken care of.

Chris Tang Ping-keung, Hong Kong's current police commissioner, changed the force's slogan from "we serve with pride and care" to "serving Hong Kong with honor, duty and loyalty." That was done right after he took office in late November. There has been some speculation about the decision, especially under the backdrop of six months of unrest.

As for the slogan change, Tang said he understands the decision since there should be regular reviews to make sure that the Hong Kong police force is moving in the right direction. 

He said the authority must adapt to the changes of the society, changes of circumstances in and around Hong Kong, as well as changes in the Chinese mainland to ensure the stability and prosperity in the city.