Attorney-General Graham Leung has expressed the possibility of seeking an advisory opinion from the Supreme Court regarding the constitutional amendment provisions established in the 2013 Constitution. During a recent media conference, he emphasized that he believes a constitution should be a dynamic document that evolves with the changing needs of society, stating, “The world doesn’t stand still.”
Leung acknowledged a growing desire for changes among the public, indicating that the Government is attentive to these sentiments. He noted that 2025 is shaping up to be a significant year since it precedes the general elections expected in 2026, leading to a tightly packed legislative agenda.
“We are considering various methods for potential amendments. This could involve targeting specific, more manageable changes first or undertaking a comprehensive review of the Constitution,” he explained. Leung recognized the complexity of the situation, arguing that this endeavor cannot simply be an instantaneous overhaul.
He pointed out that the 2013 Constitution has been in effect for three elections and questioned the feasibility of reverting to the 1997 Constitution, considering that many of the current parliamentarians weren’t in office back then. This necessitates thorough deliberation and a bipartisan approach, involving consultations across political factions and civil society.
Leung cautioned against hasty reforms, warning that rushed changes could potentially destabilize established institutions and lead to unforeseen chaos. He underlined the importance of the Constitution as the supreme law of the country, stating, “You don’t tinker with it lightly.” He further mentioned that changing the Constitution is a heavy process, one that may require consensus from a supermajority of parliament and registered voters, likening it to “a camel going through the eye of a needle.”
Despite these challenges, Leung maintained a hopeful stance, appreciating the diversity of opinions as a fundamental aspect of democracy. He invited respectful discussions on differing views, which he believes is constructive for a healthy democratic environment.
Overall, this discussion signals a recognition by the government of the need for potential reforms while also underscoring the careful considerations necessary for such undertakings. It reflects a commitment to engaging with the public and political stakeholders in a thoughtful manner, fostering an atmosphere of democratic dialogue and participation.
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