Article 45 (of the Basic Law)

Article 45 of the Basic Law outlines the process for selecting the Chief Executive of Hong Kong. It states that the Chief Executive should be chosen by universal suffrage or a method that ensures a broad representation of opinions. Before this, the fourth Chief Executive was selected by a 1,200-member Election Committee. The article emphasizes the goal of gradually implementing universal suffrage, with the central government overseeing and approving the method of selection to ensure stability and compliance with the Basic Law. Essentially, it guides how Hong Kong's leader is elected, balancing democratic aspirations with government oversight.