Leung Chun-ying, Hong Kong chief executive, will face an increasingly polarised legislature and a more radical opposition following citywide elections on Sunday.
The pro-democracy camp failed to make a significant breakthrough in the legislative council, which has the power to veto government bills, despite the recent outpouring of public anger against a plan to introduce Chinese patriotism lessons into local schools.
Pro-Beijing parties instead maintained their dominance over the city’s main decision-making body, with a roughly 60-40 split in their favour. The pro-Beijing parties continue to enjoy strong support thanks to a perception of a greater focus on local issues. Many of their supporters also voted for candidates more likely to back the government to give Mr Leung’s administration a chance.