The Forgotten Legacy of Hong Kong's First Leader Under Chinese Rule Tung Chee hwa's passing at 89 brings to mind the tumultuous era in Hong Kong's history marked by high hopes and dashed dreams.
As the territory's first leader under Chinese rule, Tung's tenure from 1997 to 2005 was a defining period for Hong Kongers' aspirations for greater democracy.
Tung's inaugural speech in 1997 echoed the language used by colonial administrators before him, pledging to maintain Hong Kong as a vibrant and international city.