Archive · 3 Dec 2025
Hong Kong Holds Elections Amid Fire Tragedy
Hong Kong is having an important election on Sunday, but many people are sad and angry because of a big fire that killed many people.
The government says the election must go on so new leaders can help with the recovery.
But some people think the government should focus on helping the victims instead.
The election rules have changed, so only people who support the Chinese government can run.
This has made many people not want to vote.
The government is hoping lots of people will vote to show the election is fair, but many are still upset and might not go.
Hong Kong will hold legislative elections on Sunday, December 3, 2023, despite a recent deadly fire that killed at least 156 people.
The election is seen as a test of legitimacy for the Hong Kong government amid public anger over the fire and ongoing national security crackdown.
Electoral reforms in 2021 reduced the number of directly elected seats from 35 to 20 and introduced national security vetting for candidates.
Voter turnout is expected to be low, with many residents traumatized by the fire and angry at the government's response.
Campaigning has been low-key, with candidates avoiding discussions about the fire or government accountability.
- Who
- Hong Kong government and residents
- What
- Legislative elections proceeding despite recent deadly fire
- When
- Sunday, December 3, 2023
- Where
- Hong Kong
- Why
- To maintain political stability and proceed with post-disaster reconstruction
- Election Date
- Sunday, December 3, 2023
- Fire Fatalities
- At least 156
- Registered Voters
- 4.13 million
- Voter Turnout 2021
- 30.2%
- Directly Elected Seats
- 20
- Total Legislative Council Seats
- 90
- Election Reforms Year
- 2021
- National Security Law Imposed
- 2020