Hong Kong’s top leadership, including Chief Executive John Lee, formally observed a moment of silence Wednesday in memory of those killed in the recent devastating blaze at Richland Garden in Tai Po. The somber ceremony, held outside the Central Government Offices, brought together key officials, uniformed services leaders, and representatives from Beijing, underscoring the severity of the tragic loss.
The tribute began at 8 a.m. with a Police Honor Guard raising the national and regional flags, which were then immediately lowered to half-mast. Attendees, including senior government bureau chiefs, Executive Council non-official members, and hospital authority executives, observed a three-minute silence for victims of the residential fire that caused multiple casualties. Notable mainland officials present included Nong Rong, Deputy Director of the Central Leading Group on Hong Kong and Macau Affairs, and Zhou Ji, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in Hong Kong.
Citywide Mourning Implemented
The silent commemoration marked the beginning of a three-day period of official mourning across the Special Administrative Region. All government buildings and facilities, including Hong Kong’s overseas representative offices, will fly the national and regional flags at half-mast until Friday.
In a sign of unified grief, Chief Executive Lee and other principal officials proceeded immediately after the five-minute ceremony to a designated condolence area established in the West Wing of the Central Government Offices to sign books of remembrance.
Public and Official Activities Curtailed
The government announced several measures to focus the city on mourning. Major government officials are expected to cancel all non-essential public appearances and activities throughout the period. Furthermore, all entertainment and celebratory events organized or funded by the government will be either canceled or postponed, depending on their nature, out of respect for the victims.
The period of public mourning will also feature widespread opportunities for citizens to express their condolences. The Home Affairs Department has established remembrance stations in all 18 districts across Hong Kong. These stations will be open for the public to sign condolence registers from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., running from Wednesday, November 29, through Friday, December 1.
Civilians Join Silent Vigil
Beyond the political figures, a large contingent of citizens dressed in muted colors voluntarily gathered outside the government complex grounds to witness the proceedings and participate in the collective silence. Their silent presence highlighted the profound impact the disaster has had on the community.
The extensive participation from both local and mainland government echelons, alongside the visible public outreach efforts, emphasizes the gravity of the Tai Po fire incident. The coordinated displays of grief and the establishment of citywide condolence measures aim to provide an organized and respectful framework for the recovery and emotional healing process following a tragedy that has deeply shaken the city. Further investigations into the cause of the fire remain ongoing as victims and their families begin the arduous process of rebuilding their lives.
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