Special to WorldTribune.com

Washington Free Beacon

China’s legislature on Sunday denied fully democratic elections to Hong Kong in a move that could spark mass protests in the city’s streets.

The National People’s Congress Standing Committee ruled that nominees for Hong Kong’s chief executive in 2017 would still have to obtain approval from 50 percent of a mostly pro-Beijing committee. The financial center’s pro-democracy movement had pushed for minimal involvement from China in both the nomination and election process. …

“After having lied to Hong Kong people for so many years, it finally revealed itself today,” said Alan Leong. “Hong Kong people are right to feel betrayed. It’s certain now that the central government will be effectively appointing Hong Kong’s chief executive.”

China regained administrative control of the former British colony in 1997. Hong Kong has since operated under a “one country, two systems” agreement that grants it more civil liberties and local freedoms than the mainland, making it a potential flashpoint in the clashes between Beijing and pro-democracy groups.

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  China ruling smashes Hong Kong democracy, LIFE, National People’s Congress Standing Committee, WorldTribune.com