Hong Kong residents have shown positive responses to the central government's interpretation of the Basic Law. The interpretation came after some candidates elected to the Legislative Council departed from the text of the oath during their swearing-in. People from all sectors of society supported the decision, saying this is a strong counterstrike to separatist forces.
The National People's Congress set clear rules on oath-taking by interpreting Article 104 of the Basic Law on Monday.
Response in Hong Kong widely agrees with the principle of One Country, Two Systems, and Hong Kong's place in China.
"This is a must. Hong Kong is an inalienable part of China. If you don't pledge allegiance to the Basic Law, to the People's Republic of China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, then you don't deserve to be a public servant," said Wu Lianghao, president of HK Federation of Fujian Association.
Wu says the separatists' words and actions put social stability in danger. He says they are waging an unpopular war that has disturbed regular life.
"Only when China is strong, can the people of Hong Kong be proud. Only when the country becomes powerful, can families become prosperous. We must uphold the national integrity and security. That is our duty as Hong Kong residents," Wu said.
Two lawmakers-elect deliberately insulted the country and its people while taking the oath of office, and even advocated "Hong Kong independence". From now on, public servants must adhere strictly to the Basic Law.
"We must pledge allegiance to the People's Republic of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. I believe most people in Hong Kong, no matter if they are scholars or judges, would agree with me," said Lan Hong-Tsung, former HK official.
"I strongly support the Interpretation of the Basic Law. We must eliminate any thoughts that put national integrity in danger. I would say, 99.9% of the Hong Kong residents would definitely agree with it. This is a very good decision. There is no other way," a HK resident said.
"One country, two systems." The central government is taking action to deal with anything that threatens Hong Kong's social stability.
