Summary
Hong Kong is holding an election for its Legislative Council amid public mourning for a deadly fire. The fire in Tai Po killed nearly 160 people, prompting questions about safety standards. The government has promoted voting by offering incentives like shopping discounts and free entry to public venues.
Key Facts
- Hong Kong is voting for the Legislative Council, a body that helps make laws.
- The election features 161 candidates competing for 90 seats.
- China changed Hong Kong's election system in 2021 to allow only candidates loyal to China.
- A recent fire in Tai Po killed almost 160 people, leading to public mourning.
- The government has launched a campaign with incentives to encourage voting, such as shopping discounts and event entry.
- Following the fire, 13 people were arrested for suspected manslaughter related to safety standard issues.
- Authorities have ordered an investigation into the fire and are looking into building safety.
- Political campaigning paused after the fire but resumed shortly after.
