Donald Tsang , the chief executive of Hong Kong, has apologised over his role in a corruption investigation currently underway by the city's anti-graft watchdog.
The Independent Commission Against Corruption launched the probe at the end of February to investigate claims that Tsang used his position to get free holidays and an apartment from local business tycoons. In an emotional speech to the city's legislature, Tsang denied the allegations and said that he would cooperate fully with the investigation.
“The chain of events has created worries among the media and public, civil servants and lawmakers and also shaken the public's belief in Hong Kong's system”, he said. Tsang also announced the formation of an independent committee to review the rules which govern the code of conduct for civil servants.
The investigation threatens to tarnish Tsang just weeks before an election is held to choose his successor. The heir apparent, Henry Tang, is embroiled in his own scandal over an unlicenced extension to his house.
The investigation has sparked concern over the rule of law and the political system in Hong Kong. In a rare display of public anger, thousands of protestors took to the streets to demand that Tsang resign and that Tang desist from running to succeed him.
Although Tsang is unlikely to bow out before his term expires this year, the probe has raised concerns over the collusion between politics and business in the city, which has always prided itself on its rule of law.
Sources: Bloomberg, Reuters
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