Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu announced on Tuesday the formation of a judge-led independent committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the catastrophic Wang Fuk Court fire that has resulted in 156 fatalities. The blaze, which raged for 43 hours beginning last Wednesday, represents one of Hong Kong’s deadliest building fires in recent history.
The judicial panel will undertake a thorough examination of systemic failures in Hong Kong’s building works system, with particular focus on eight critical areas where serious negligence occurred. These include safety protocols during repair works, daily maintenance standards, potential improper connections or collusion among involved parties, completeness of materials documentation, and the effectiveness of inspection regimes.
Lee emphasized that accountability would be determined for all relevant parties, including government departments and accredited professionals. “I will contact the judicial authority to invite a judge to chair the review committee’s work and examine its detailed work scope,” Lee stated during a briefing before the weekly Executive Council meeting.
Meanwhile, residents of Wang Chi House—the sole unaffected building in the complex—will be permitted to return on Wednesday and Thursday to retrieve essential belongings under police supervision.
The tragedy has prompted an unprecedented outpouring of support from both Hong Kong and mainland Chinese communities. Donations to the government-established Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court have reached HK$2.3 billion, far exceeding the initial HK$300 million startup fund.
Central authorities have provided crucial assistance, with Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office, commending the HKSAR government’s relief efforts and pledging continued support. The Ministry of Emergency Management has coordinated the delivery of specialized equipment including portable charging stations, blowers, protective suits, and vapor filtration systems to aid rescue operations.
Tuesday marked the traditional Chinese “first seven” day of remembrance for the victims, with mourners gathering at makeshift memorials near the disaster site to place white flowers, paper cranes, and condolence cards. The community’s grief was palpable as residents comforted one another at the Kwong Fuk sitting-out area, where a special section was designated for commemorating pets that perished in the fire.
Despite the tragedy, Lee confirmed that Hong Kong’s Legislative Council General Election would proceed as scheduled on Sunday, noting that a functioning legislature remains essential to the city’s recovery and reform process.