A decision made by the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee on Sunday granted universal suffrage in the selection of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)'s chief executive from 2017 onward.

According to the decision, in the process of universal suffrage, candidates for Hong Kong's next chief executive must be endorsed by a majority of a nominating committee with extensive representation. This is not only an important decision but also a significant political resolution. This decision is a key point in Hong Kong's political reform.

Universal suffrage is a significant political reform in any country and any region. According to the Constitution of PRC, the central government has the right to decide systems instituted in Hong Kong SAR, including the ruling body. According to the Basic Law of Hong Kong, the power of amendment of selection of the chief executive and the Legislative Council shall be vested in central government.

When making the decision, the highest legislative authority in China comprehensively considered the fundamental purposes of "one country, two systems" and relative regulations in the Basic Law of Hong Kong and paid close attention to suggestions from Hong Kong residents on the universal suffrage. This decision is in accordance with the Basic Law of Hong Kong and the prevailing conditions in Hong Kong

Universal suffrage is the most significant political issue since the return of Hong Kong, concerning the implementation of "one country, two systems", national sovereignty, security, interests and long-term prosperity and stability in Hong Kong. This reform marks a historical step forward in the democratic process in Hong Kong.

Universal suffrage, an issue that goes to the essence of politics, has aroused enormous controversy in Hong Kong. The core of this issue lies in whether Hong Kong should abide by the Basic Law.

Some want to create a form of universal suffrage that conflicts with the Basic Law. If their requirements are not met, they will consider that Hong Kong's "universal suffrage" does not correspond to international norms. This represents a movement to transfer Hong Kong into an independent or semi-independent political unit at the cost of national interests.

Anyone in opposition to the central government cannot be elected as chief executive. This is a fundamental requirement of the Basic Law to protect interests of investors, Hong Kong residents, Hong Kong SAR, and national security.

This decision shows the sincerity of central government and is in accordance with the common aspiration of Hong Kong residents and the fundamental interests of Hong Kong SAR.

The article is edited and translated from《走好香港政制发展的关键一步（社论）》, source: People's Daily