China announced yesterday that Hong Kong's new No. 2 leader is Rafael Hui (許仕仁) -- a veteran civil servant who pledged to focus on economic development, creating jobs and making the government more efficient.
Hui, whose expertise is in financial affairs, takes over from Donald Tsang (曾蔭權), a popular career bureaucrat who last week assumed the title of chief executive -- the territory's highest political post.
As the chief secretary for administration, Hui will be responsible for overseeing the government's daily affairs.
Hui's widely expected appointment wraps up a leadership shake-up triggered in March when former chief executive Tung Chee-hwa (董建華) quit, citing fatigue and failing health.
Tsang said Hui was his choice and had submitted his name to China's central government last Saturday.
"I have worked with Mr. Hui for many years. I know him well. He has the insight, ability and commitment to serve the country and the Hong Kong people," Tsang told reporters.
In his first public comments since being named to the post, Hui pledged to work toward a better Hong Kong.
He said the "government will operate in a highly efficient manner, maintain a level playing field for business, spearhead economic development, increase job opportunities, enhance the standard of government services and make Hong Kong a better place for people to live and work."
In his short speech, Hui didn't touch on the sensitive issue of political reform. The government is considering ways to make Hong Kong more democratic, and Tsang was in charge of the initiative when he was the No.2 leader. Hui might take over the delicate task.
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