Hong Kong Has Spoken

Hong Kong has spoken, indeed has shouted, and it has shouted "democracy" loud and clear. Pro-democracy candidates secured almost 90 percent of district council seats in Sunday's election, taking control of 17 out of 18 councils, a staggering defeat for the Chinese government and pro-Beijing Chief Executive Carrie Lam. The councils have little power and therefore usually attract little interest, but this election experienced a record turnout, 71 percent, obviously to make a statement. Ms. Lam had said, despite months of demonstrations against her government, that she had the support of a silent majority. On Sunday the majority begged to differ. The unpopular Lam acknowledged that among the issues voters wanted to express their views on included "deficiencies in governance."

"This is a democratic tsunami," said Tommy Cheung, a former student protest leader who won a seat himself. The tsunami is a challenge to Xi Jinping, but he is unlikely to make concessions, and indeed his minion, Lam, has made no concessions. China. after all, needs to send a message to Xinjiang and Taiwan. Beijing predictably blames foreign forces for the protests.

Regardless of what happens next, this display of democratic fervour is deeply refreshing at a time when authoritarianism, nationalism and isolationism are on the rise, and the liberal world order is being tested. The over 70 percent turnout, even though exceptional, was particularly impressive. Our municipal elections commonly get turnouts of closer to 40 percent even though our municipal councils have substantial power. We could use a little of that Hong Kong passion.