The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive John Lee on Sunday called on eligible voters to actively cast their ballots, saying voter participation is essential to driving reforms, supporting affected residents and strengthening HKSAR's development.

Lee said he and his wife had already voted and described the process as smooth. He noted that the government had introduced various facilitation measures and extended polling hours to ensure a smoother voting experience. Polling stations opened at 7:30 a.m. and will close at 11:30 p.m. – two hours longer than previous elections – providing more time for voters to participate.

Speaking of the recent Wang Fuk Court residential complex fire, Lee said the incident had saddened the entire community. He stressed that the authorities would work to uncover the cause, advance institutional reforms and enhance public safety to reassure residents.

Lee added that the new Legislative Council will convene a meeting where the government will propose a motion related to institutional reform. He expressed hope to work with lawmakers to support disaster-affected residents, uncover the truth as soon as possible, and accelerate recovery and reconstruction efforts.

He noted that the Legislative Council held significant responsibilities and emphasized that improving the system and safeguarding public safety required joint efforts from all sides. Lee noted that each vote contributes to pushing forward reforms and helping Hong Kong move forward together.

(Cover: Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region John Lee casts his ballot at a polling station in Hong Kong, December 7, 2025. /VCG)