Hong Kong commenced the election for the eighth-term Legislative Council (LegCo) on Sunday, December 7, 2025, with authorities extending the voting period by two hours, seeking to fill 90 seats. Across the city, 615 ordinary polling stations opened at 7:30 a.m. and are scheduled to close at 11:30 p.m., marking a 16-hour voting window designed to maximize civic participation. High-profile officials, including Chief Executive John Lee, were among the early voters, casting their ballots around 8:30 a.m. at Raimondi College.
Voting Day Adjustments and Context
The election takes place amid heightened sensitivity following a recent major fire, which necessitated immediate logistical adjustments. Due to the tragedy at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, three polling locations in the district were relocated. Affected residents, including those from Hong Fuk Court, were directed to newly assigned voting venues, with shuttle services provided to ensure easy access. One resident, Ms. Wong, who was temporarily rehoused, utilized a free bus to reach the Hong Kong Teachers’ Association Lee Hing Kwai College polling station, emphasizing her commitment to fulfilling her civic duty despite the disruption.
Acknowledging the somber atmosphere surrounding the incident, Chief Secretary Eric Chan underscored the importance of proceeding with the election. Speaking after casting his vote in Fo Tan, he stressed that the act of voting “takes only a minute or two” yet holds significant meaning for the city’s continuity. He stated that a properly elected legislature is crucial for providing necessary oversight, support, and advice, particularly in assisting victims and ensuring Hong Kong continues to move forward. Mr. Chan refrained from setting turnout expectations but urged all eligible citizens to participate.
Early Turnout Figures and Institutional Goals
Within the first hour of polling, the initial cumulative turnout in the geographical constituencies reached 67,991 voters, representing 1.65% of the total electorate of 4,131,298.
Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Secretary Erick Tsang provided further context, noting that by the two-hour mark, the geographical constituency turnout had climbed to 4.18%. Mr. Tsang highlighted the efficiency of the voting process, observing that most voters completed the procedure swiftly.
He framed the LegCo election as essential for maintaining good governance in Hong Kong, ensuring the successful implementation of the “one country, two systems” framework, and facilitating institutional improvements identified in the wake of the Tai Po fire.
In terms of logistical improvements, Tsang pointed out that nearly 30% of polling stations reduced their “no canvassing zones” this year. This adjustment aims to prevent obstruction of voter access while maintaining a balance that allows candidates to conduct necessary campaign activities.
First-Hour Turnout Breakdown (8:30 a.m.)
Initial returns showed varied participation across different electoral segments:
- Geographical Constituencies: Overall turnout was 1.65%, with New Territories South West recording the highest initial vote at 1.79%.
- Functional Constituencies: Cumulative turnout stood at 2.31% (4,438 voters). Sectors with notably high early participation included Labour (22.36%), Technology and Innovation (16.90%), and Commercial (third) with 62.21%.
- Election Committee: This constituency reported a 15.48% turnout, with 227 of 1,466 electors casting their ballots early.
These early figures serve as a preliminary indicator, with officials expecting increased participation throughout the extended polling day. The successful and timely election of a new Legislative Council is crucial to avoiding any governance vacuum, providing the strategic support needed for the city’s recovery and stable development.