Finally, Hong Kong scraps extradition bill which sparked weeks of violent protests

The controversial extradition bill that sparked months of civil unrest in Hong Kong has formally been scrapped by the legislature of the semi-autonomous city.

However, the bill’s formal withdrawal meets only one of five key demands emphasised by some protesters, who have often chanted “five demands, not one less” in Hong Kong’s streets.

Connie, a 27-year-old protester, told Reuters news agency the move to expunge the extradition bill was “too little, too late”.

“There are still other demands the government needs to meet, especially the problem of police brutality,” she said.

Carrie Lam, had insisted in the past that other demands which includes; for protests not to be characterised as a “riot”, amnesty for arrested protesters, setting up of an independent inquiry into alleged police brutality and the implementation of complete universal suffrage, are outside her control.

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The development comes as reports revealed that China is reportedly making moves to replace Lam.

A report by the Financial Times (FT), citing people briefed on the deliberations, informed that China is planning to replace Lam, with an “interim” chief executive.

Financial Times also reveled in the report that Lam’s new successor would be appointed by March and cover the remainder of her term.

Candidates in the lead to replace Lam include the former head of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Norman Chan.

Henry Tang, who has also served as the territory’s financial secretary and chief secretary for administration, is another possible successor, the report said.

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