Hong Kong’s Chief Secretary, Eric Chan Kwok‑ki, announced that the government welcomes candidate debates at the upcoming Legislative Council election forums, while also urging participants to maintain civility and abstain from smear campaigns or personal attacks.

He emphasised that employees should still be able to cast their votes on December 7 even if they are on duty during the polling period.

Speaking on Friday, Chan said the administration will not require any individual to disclose whether they have cast their vote or not, thereby affirming the confidentiality and voluntary nature of voting.

He described the 39 government-organised forums — covering all 10 geographical, 28 functional and one Election Committee constituency — as a constructive platform for quality dialogue ahead of the city’s second “patriots-only” legislature election.

Chan reiterated that while candidates may choose argumentative or adversarial styles in thse debates, the government hopes participants will avoid tactics such as smearing, mudslinging or back-stabbing.

He noted that the recent directives from Beijing’s Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office cautioning against personal attacks and community division also guide the administration’s attitude to campaign conduct.

The announcement follows the clearance of all 161 election candidates by the vetting panel, officially marking the entry of participants into full campaign mode.

The first of the 39 forums is due to take place this month, with public-broadcaster coverage and direct engagement with the electorate.

Chan’s remarks come amid efforts by the administration to elevate voter participation and civic engagement in a race where nearly one-third of incumbents are stepping down and all seats are contested.

He called on workers to use polling day leave if possible, while companies have begun signalling support by offering half-day leave or transport subsidies.

Employers, he said, should ensure staff are not prevented from fulfilling their duty to vote even if they work on election day.

While the government emphasises orderly debate and high-quality conduct, observers note that many of the forums thus far have featured introductory presentations rather than open questioning or confrontational style exchanges.

Nevertheless, the administration views the forums as a visible indicator of electoral openness and an opportunity for candidates to present their priorities directly to voters.

Chan underlined that the forums are intended not only to communicate policy but also to project the concept of a “high-quality election culture” in Hong Kong, where discussion and demonstration of vision matter.

He urged the electorate to study manifestos and to vote carefully on December 7, thereby reinforcing the administration’s focus on turnout and civic responsibility.