Hong Kong’s leader apologises for residential fire that killed 168 people
Summary
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee apologized after an independent report found government failures contributed to a residential fire that killed 168 people last November. The report blamed private contractors as the main culprits but said four government departments bore part of the responsibility; Lee announced a further investigation and promised reforms.Key Facts
- The fire spread through seven of the eight towers at Wang Fuk Court, a housing complex undergoing renovations.
- The report cited decades of government failure and lax enforcement of safety rules.
- It said better action by four departments could have helped address fire hazards before the blaze.
- Housing Secretary Winnie Ho resigned, and Lee said she should bear political responsibility.
- Authorities have charged seven people and two companies, including with manslaughter, and have arrested at least 35 people.
- Some victims’ families said the apology and acceptance of responsibility were inadequate.
- Lee said a three-month investigation into the government’s role would begin and outlined proposed reforms, including criminalizing bid-rigging.
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