Hong Kong held citywide by-elections on Sunday. Pro-democracy lawmakers hail it as a ‘referendum on electoral reform.’

Since Hong Kong passed from British to Chinese rule in 1997, the colony has been governed under a watered down version of democracy. Hong Kong citizens only elect half of the lawmakers in Hong Kong’s 60-seat legislature. The other half are elected by ‘special interest groups,’ such as business organizations, many of whom are sympathetic to the Chinese Communist Party. And the Chief Executive is appointed by an election committee—not by the public.

Democrats in Hong Kong have been pushing the Chinese regime to allow full democracy in Hong Kong. Five lawmakers from the Legislative Council who resigned on January 26th triggered this ballot. They hope it will reinvigorate public debate over constitutional reform.

[Tania Chan, Election Candidate]:
"We hope that we will start, will trigger a by-election and allow the people to express their views toward out constitutional reform. And that is the most important thing that will affect our future, especially the next generation."

Chinese authorities have called the referendum plan a "blatant challenge" to their authority. They say they will not allow Hong Kong’s Chief Executive to be elected by the people until 2017, while the Democrats want full democracy in 2012.

Anson Chan served as Chief Secretary in Hong Kong under the last British governor, Chris Patten and is now on the Legislative Council. She stresses the importance of Hong Kong citizens to exercise their right to vote.

[Anson Chan, Chief Secretary 1993–1997]:
"This by-election, given the government's blatant attempt to interfere and to intimidate, I think it's particularly important for all Hong Kong voters to show the government that we are not going to be easily persuaded to abandon our right to vote.”

Pro-Chinese regime political parties have boycotted the vote. The initial turnout rates at the 500 or so polling stations were far below previous legislative elections.

Still some Hong Kong citizens are showing up to vote, determined to have their voice heard.

[Miss Leung, Voter]:
"I want to express my opinion like other citizens. My wish is for Hong Kong to have more freedom."

The five lawmakers who resigned are expected to be re-elected.