By Salma El-Sakka
Hong Kong leader John Lee apologized Thursday and announced the resignation of Housing Secretary Winnie Ho after an independent investigation into the city’s deadliest fire in decades found inadequate regulatory oversight.
Investigation Finds Regulatory Failures
The massive fire broke out last November, engulfing seven buildings in an apartment complex in a northern suburban district, killing 168 people and displacing thousands. The investigation revealed that the Housing Bureau’s independent checking unit failed to properly supervise maintenance work being carried out at the complex.
Political Responsibility Accepted
Lee stated that Ho “should bear political responsibility,” though no personal wrongdoing was found. Ho resigned on Wednesday. At a news conference, Lee and seven other top officials bowed in apology to the victims and their families.
Criminal Proceedings Underway
Separate criminal investigations have led to charges against seven individuals and two companies for offenses including manslaughter and conspiracy to defraud. Authorities allege the companies conspired to defraud apartment owners by concealing previous litigation records of the firm awarded the renovation contract, worth more than 300 million Hong Kong dollars (over $38 million).
