Patriots Only’ LegCo Election: Hong Kong Government Mobilizes Massive Campaign to Boost Turnout
The Hong Kong LegCo election is underway, the second under Beijing’s “patriots only” system. With 161 loyalist candidates competing for 90 seats, the government has deployed an unprecedented mobilization campaign—using free vouchers, mascots, and a pop-song theme—to boost turnout from the record-low 30% seen in 2021. The poll’s legitimacy is being heavily tested following the deadly Tai Po fire tragedy.