HKU panel needs to reach fair conclusion
- Investigation into university president, who denies claims made against him, must put politics and personal matters aside to ensure just outcome
The University of Hong Kong is no stranger to controversies, the latest involving serious accusations of mismanagement against its president. While Professor Xiang Zhang vehemently denies what he deems to be defamatory charges, a five-member investigative panel has been appointed by the governing body of HKU in accordance with its policy.
Given the gravity of the matter, it is important that the probe is thorough and the outcome fair and just.
The way the dispute came to light has fuelled much speculation. Details of anonymous email complaints and the request for legal representation by Zhang were leaked to the media ahead of a special university council meeting on the issue.
There have also been reports of growing tensions between Zhang and the council.
Urging the public not to jump to conclusions, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said speculation or accusations based on individual feelings would not help resolve the situation. Council chairwoman Priscilla Wong Pui-sze said the panel would reach its findings through an “evidence-based investigation in an unbiased manner”.
Zhang said his lawyers had confirmed that all accusations were “baseless and maliciously fabricated”, and he expressed concern over whether the council could handle the accusations against him fairly and impartially, pointing to the leaked communications between him and the body.
HKU has been plagued by a series of political controversies over the years. While it still ranks favourably regionally and globally, such disputes do nothing for its image and reputation. Zhang had earlier made headlines over the replacement of a vehicle for his own use.
As he began his second five-year term this summer, more serious accusations surfaced, including the use of donations, recruitment procedures and conflicts with the council.
Hong Kong leader calls for fair, independent probe in misconduct case of HKU head
It is unfortunate that the dispute comes when the city is hunting for overseas talent. Hopefully, it will not have any negative impact on that search.
Given the investigation has a direct impact on Zhang, the council and HKU, it must be conducted in a fair and just manner, without politicising and personalising the matter.
