User:PeterKa
Back from Hong Kong
I'm back from Hong Kong and it was certainly quite a week to be there (Oct. 1-7). Hong Kong was once a British colony, but it has been ruled by China since 1997. The city has a unique "one country, two systems" form of government that allows a British-style legal system to continue despite the fact that the local government is now appointed by the Chinese Communist Party. There have been pro-democracy protests in the city for the past four months. The protests expanded dramatically after a decree banning masks took effect on Oct. 5. Vandalism was so intense that the entire subway system had to be closed down.
Hong Kong has one of the most serious housing bubbles in history. Rising land values make the rich richer and leaves young couples without homes of their own. Everyone wants a piece of the action, including Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi has a villa in Hong Kong at Repulse Bay. When I talked to the protesters, I suggested that they take a look at that.
A barricade in Mongkok District, Oct. 5. Although defended by a catapult, the police had little trouble taking it apart.
This tower in Sai Ying Pun is the office of Hong Kong's "secret" Communist Party. (I didn't tell you.)
The subway has been overwhelmed by a wave of vandalism. This pane is at Mei Foo Station.
This poster addresses the aspect of the protest that is perhaps most perplexing: Why do the protesters attack the subway?
Dim sum is what Hong Kongers eat for breakfast.
You can get a magnificent view of the harbour aboard the white and green Hong Kong ferry.
