Macao’s Former Top Judge Elected As Chinese Casino Hub’s Leader

Macao’s former top judge, Sam Hou Fai, was elected as the Chinese casino hub’s next leader in a largely ceremonial election, making him the city’s first chief executive born in mainland China, Kanis Leung reported for the Associated Press (AP).

Almost the entire election committee, comprised of 394 out of 398 members loyal to Beijing, voted for Sam, who was the sole candidate. I Photo: China Daily

Almost the entire election committee, comprised of 394 out of 398 members loyal to Beijing, voted for Sam, who was the sole candidate.

This marks a departure from the long-standing tradition of selecting chief executives who were born in the former Portuguese colony, typically from influential business families. The remaining four members cast blank votes.

Analysts suggest that this shift towards a leader from the legal profession might signal a decline in the influence of business circles, which critics have often accused of colluding with officials.

Observers expect Beijing’s policy agenda for the city to take precedence. Sam, 62, is widely regarded as having Beijing’s endorsement.

During the nomination period, he had already secured support from 386 election committee members, who voted in batches at a conference hall on Sunday.

Influential figures among the 400-strong committee included Pansy Ho, executive chairperson of Shun Tak Holdings and daughter of the late casino tycoon Stanley Ho; lawmaker Angela Leong, one of Stanley Ho’s widows; and former chief executives Edmund Ho and Fernando Chui.