Two more on board

Two more groups have submitted their candidate lists for the upcoming legislative assembly election in September. The Association for the Promotion of Citizen’s Rights (APDC) and the Macau-Guangdong Union turned in their lists on Friday, with Hong Weng Kuan, a representative of APDC, disclosing that around five to six candidates from the legal, medical and civil servant sectors will take part in the election.
A solicitor who participated in the last election, Hong opined that the current societal problems “originate from [the city’s] political system”.
He stated that the number of directly elected legislators is inadequate, which as resulted in the stagnation of the political system.
“We wish to get involved in, and gradually change, the system,” said the solicitor, pointing out that change needs to be gradual, as one legislator can only have so much effect.
Hong revealed that the group had received slightly over 500 signatures, noting that repeat signatures from voters were erased.
Meanwhile, Yen Soi Kun, the trustee of the Macau-Guangdong Union announced that current legislators Mak Soi Kun and Zhen Anting will be leading the group for the election.
When asked whether they would feel pressure given that certain groups have divided and submitted their respective candidate lists, Yen said each has their own method and it is more important to focus on their own tasks.
“Because we are here to serve the citizens,” said Yen. “[We work] for the ‘one country, two systems’ and the development of Macau, therefore, it is important to do our own part.”
He also revealed that the group had gathered almost 500 signatures from voters, however the list of nominees was still being deliberated.
“We will announce when we confirm the list,” said Yen.