Following the devastating Tai Po Wang Fuk Court inferno that reportedly claimed 151 lives, with 39 individuals still missing, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu announced an immediate, independent inquiry led by a judge. The formation of the commission, detailed ahead of Tuesday’s Executive Council meeting, aims to conduct an exhaustive fact-finding exercise to enforce accountability and implement “systematic reform” to prevent future catastrophes.
The Chief Executive stressed that the core goal of the inquiry is to transform profound tragedy into actionable change, ensuring every systemic failing is addressed and responsible parties are held fully accountable. Lee confirmed that the administration will provide the commission unfettered access to necessary data and committed to swiftly acting upon all recommendations. Law enforcement is mandated to pursue all detected criminal activity impartially, with Lee warning against any attempts to exploit the disaster to incite social disorder.
Eight Pillars of Systemic Reform
The announced inquiry will focus intensely on systemic deficiencies across eight priority areas central to Hong Kong’s building and safety practices:
- Construction Safety: Scrutinizing site safety protocols and routine maintenance practices in building works.
- Corruption Risks: Investigating potential conflicts of interest and collusion within relevant sectors.
- Material Integrity: Assessing the completeness of materials lists and the robustness of testing procedures for construction components.
- Regulatory Clarity: Defining the specific roles and responsibilities of both government bodies and professional practitioners.
- Procurement Ethics: Ensuring integrity and transparency within tendering processes.
- Fire System Oversight: Evaluating the effectiveness of building fire safety systems and regulatory oversight.
- Attribution of Responsibility: Clearly determining the causal factors and assigning responsibility for the deadly blaze.
- Legal Adequacy: Reviewing the sufficiency of existing legal penalties for safety infringements.
Upholding Governance Amidst Crisis
Despite the immense gravity of the situation, the Legislative Council election will proceed as scheduled on Dec. 7. Lee underscored that maintaining the rule of law and continuity of governance is paramount for stability and recovery. New legislators are deemed essential partners in reform, tasked with scrutinizing funding and enacting necessary legislation to fortify safety regimes. Relief operations, the Chief Executive affirmed, will not pause for the election and will be bolstered by the incoming legislature’s constitutional mandate.
Addressing public concerns about his continuation in office, Lee was resolute, stating that the current imperative is to correct systemic shortcomings rather than shirk responsibility. He vowed to pursue accountability relentlessly and close every loophole.
Senior officials from the Mainland, including Xia Baolong, have been briefed and expressed full confidence in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s relief management. Mainland authorities have offered comprehensive support, including medical assistance and drone technology, underscoring a collective determination to protect lives and rebuild with enhanced institutional resilience. This comprehensive investigation signals a pivotal moment for Hong Kong to overhaul its foundational safety and governance structures.