Turnout for Hong Kong's Legislative Council elections on Sunday hit a near-record low of 31.9%, with only 1.3 million of 7.5 million residents voting. This marginally exceeds the 2021 record low of 30.2% but represents a drop in absolute numbers from 1.4 million in 2021.
Only candidates vetted as 'patriots' by a government committee were allowed to stand, with just 20 of 90 seats directly elected. The government launched a major campaign to boost turnout, extending polling hours and offering 'thank you cards' redeemable for rewards, alongside an election anthem.
The election occurred in the shadow of the Tai Po fire, which killed at least 159 people. Mourning activities and calls for accountability have sparked a crackdown, with at least three arrests for alleged national security offences, including a student who started an online petition.
Authorities cleared an impromptu memorial near the burned buildings, and the police's national security department chief drew parallels to 2019 protests. Foreign media outlets were also summoned over their reporting, while some residents have stopped posting about the fire online due to concerns.
