Tributes pour in for first Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa

Chief Executive John Lee says he is deeply saddened by the passing of Tung Chee-hwa. Many other current and former politicians also pay tribute to Hong Kong's inaugural Chief Executive.

In a statement, Chief Executive John Lee commemorates the political career of Tung Chee-hwa and offers his condolences to Tung's family. Lee says Tung "successfully steered Hong Kong through the turmoil of the Asian financial crisis" and led its people in "overcoming a wide range of challenges through concerted efforts." He says Tung laid a "solid foundation" for Hong Kong enduring competitiveness. Lee concludes Tung's contribution to Hong Kong as "exceptionally significant."

Former Chief Executive Donald Tsang, describes his predecessor as "diligent"and that his contribution will be "etched in history."

Another ex-Chief Executive Carrie Lam reminisces the times she chatted with her former boss, depicting him as a "benevolent elderly."

Former Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying, who formed the Hong Kong Coalition with Tung in 2020, says Tung's passing is "a loss to Hong Kong society."

Hong Kong Trade Development Council's Chairman Frederick Ma, who also served under Tung's administration, became emotional when speaking about his late boss. "Tung was visionary. He loved Hong Kong and the country," Ma says in a croaked voice.

Executive Council Convenor, Regina Ip, also the Security Secretary during Tung's administration, says Tung was "caring and far-sighted" and was a "privilege" to have work under the late politician for seven years.

Xinhua pays tribute to Tung by referring him to as "a renowned patriot, an outstanding social activist and a close friend of the Communist Party of China."

The US Consulate General Hong Kong remembers Tung as a politician who was "pivotal" in strengthening the US-Hong Kong relations during a time of "profound transition."

Meanwhile, the British Consulate General Hong Kong says Tung played a "historic role" as the first Chief Executive. The statement also mentions Tung's "personal links" with the UK, including his Liverpool university degree and being a Liverpool FC supporter.