CJ expresses sorrow over passing of first Chief Executive of HKSAR, Mr Tung Chee Hwa
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Chief Justice Andrew Cheung, Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal, today (September 9) expressed deep sadness over the passing of the first Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Mr Tung Chee Hwa.
"As the first Chief Executive of the HKSAR, Mr Tung Chee Hwa led and guided the region in the implementation of the principle of 'one country, two systems' and the Basic Law through the most critical time in its history. He made significant contributions to the HKSAR's smooth transition and return to the motherland, as well as the successful implementation of the 'one country, two systems' arrangement," Chief Justice Cheung said.
"Mr Tung served our country and the HKSAR with dedication and commitment, commanding wide respect from various sectors. In 1997, Mr Tung appointed the first Chief Justice, as well as the first batch of permanent and non-permanent judges, of the Court of Final Appeal of the HKSAR in accordance with the Basic Law. This was essentially important to maintaining the rule of law and judicial independence of the HKSAR. He gave full support to the work of the Judiciary throughout his tenure.
"On behalf of the Judiciary, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to his family."
Ends/Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Issued at HKT 17:25
Issued at HKT 17:25
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