Hong Kong political leader declines to be re-elected

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Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced on Monday that she will not seek another term as the city's political elite during next month's elections.

"I will complete my five-year term as chief executive on June 30, and officially conclude my 42-year career in government," Lam told reporters.

Lam said China's leaders "understood and respected" her choice not to seek another term.

She added that her "personal wish and aspiration is entirely based on my family considerations". "I have to put my family members first, and they feel it is time for me to return home," she said.

Who will be elected instead? 

The next mayor of the city will be chosen on May 8, but no one with a realistic chance has openly thrown their hat into the ring.

Hong Kong's number two official, John Lee, who has a background in security services, has been mentioned as a possible contender by the local press.

Read more: EU lawmakers call for sanctions on Hong Kong officials

However, Lam still has not yet received any resignations from her ministers, a step that cabinet members would need to make before running. 

She also thanked Beijing for its support, saying her term was affected by "unprecedented pressure" due to the Covid-19 pandemic.