Acting Chief Executive (CE) and Chief Secretary for Administration Donald Tsang resigned from his post on Wednesday, clearing the way for his bid for top position in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's chief executive by-elections in July.

Announcing his move at government headquarters last night, Tsang declared that he would address not only the 800 Election Committee (EC) members, but also the general public once his resignation was approved.

He pledged to engage the community to win their support in the by-elections, scheduled for July 10.

His resignation was announced immediately after the Legislative Council (LegCo) passed, by 33 to 21, a bill to amend the Chief Executive Election Ordinance to limit the tenure of the CE to two years.

Explaining his campaign move, Tsang said it was motivated by a commitment to working for the successful implementation of the "one country, two systems" policy in the SAR.

"I want to contribute to the successful implementation of 'one country, two systems.' I want to contribute to the ongoing success of Hong Kong," he stated.

"I want Hong Kong people to take pride in being part of the country as well as our own unique community."

He said that while the State Council considered his resignation, he would get down to the details with his campaign team to prepare for the election.

He pledged: "After the State Council approval, I will share my philosophy on governance with the community as soon as possible. I will announce my election manifesto. I will explain my belief and values to the 800 members of the EC and to the 7 million people of Hong Kong. I will work hard to engage the community and garner their support."

Tsang said his decision was supported by his family and friends, adding he had no fear in the challenge because it was a "selfless" decision.

Tsang tendered his resignation to the State Council in the evening. The SAR's leadership during this transition phase has been passed on to Financial Secretary Henry Tang.

Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands Michael Suen, meanwhile, assumes the role of chief secretary for administration.

Declaring personal support for Tsang, Tang assured he would stick to election guidelines that required any canvassing activities by principal officials to be free of any conflicts of interest issues, not to involve public resources in the campaigning, and to not harm the neutrality of the civil service.

"I strongly believe the decision reflects his commitment to the successful implementation of 'one country, two systems' as well as the stability and prosperity prevailing in Hong Kong," Tang said.

Tang said he had worked with Tsang in different capacities for many years and found him to be a highly capable official with extensive administrative experience. "His performance has been well received and supported by the people of Hong Kong."

(China Daily May 26, 2005)