Hong Kong's new Legco kicks off with focus on Tai Po fire relief and reforms

Hong Kong's newly elected Legislative Council held its first meeting on January 15, led by president Starry Lee Wai-king, with Chief Executive John Lee outlining priorities for responding to the deadly Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po. Discussions centered on relief for displaced residents, rehousing, industry reforms, and anti-bid-rigging measures amid calls for accountability.

In its inaugural session, Hong Kong's new 90-member Legislative Council—featuring 40 first-time lawmakers—convened on January 15 to address fallout from the November 2026 Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po, which killed at least 161 people, displaced nearly 5,000 residents, and exposed issues like flammable scaffold netting during renovations.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu delivered the opening address, emphasizing government priorities: rehousing for Wang Fuk Court residents, reforming building maintenance practices, and ensuring accountability for the tragedy. This followed the previously announced agenda, which skipped the regular officials' question time.

A government motion sought Legco support for relief and rebuilding efforts, presented alongside a lawmaker's motion targeting bid-rigging in renovation projects and broader systemic reviews. The session provided the public first insights into the new council's dynamics under Starry Lee Wai-king, highlighting national integration and post-disaster recovery as key focuses.

Observers await further details on resettlement progress and inquiry outcomes in upcoming discussions.

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