On Aug. 21, Macau Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng announced he would not stand for reelection due to health concerns. A week later, on Aug. 28, a former judge announced he would seek the position.
Sam Hou Fai, ex-president of the city’s Court of Final Appeal, said he will toe the government line to create a more diversified economy, one that is less reliant on gaming.
“Having one dominant industry is not beneficial for Macau’s long-term development and has had a very negative impact,” Sam told reporters at a press briefing. He said the gaming industry’s power has become “unbalanced” and limits the career choices of young people in the city.
If Macau fails to create more industry, Sam added, “We will lose the dynamism in the economic development of society.”
Ho, meanwhile, who led the city through the Covid-19 crisis, expressed “profound feelings for Macau” and said he had “done my utmost for Macau’s development.” The election is Oct. 13. The new chief executive will take the reins in December.
