Bar chief calls for transparency over proxy votes

Jose-Antonio Maurellet, chairman of the Bar Association, urged for greater transparency surrounding proxy votes regarding building management matters. His call for increased transparency came after the government proposed amendments to the Building Management Ordinance, aiming to reduce the risk of bid-rigging following the tragic fire at Wang Fuk Court in November, which claimed 168 lives.

Addressing a TVB programme, Maurellet suggested capping the number of proxy votes an individual can cast. However, he expressed reservations about limiting proxy holders to relatives or other owners within the same estate. Instead, the Bar Association believes there are alternative methods to restrict proxy holders.

Maurellet emphasized the need for enhanced transparency. He proposed that authorization forms should be submitted at least 96 hours prior to an owners' meeting and made publicly accessible at a conspicuous location within the building 48 hours before the meeting, clearly indicating which unit is represented by which person.

If an owner wishes to delegate proxy voting responsibilities to a friend rather than relatives, Maurellet stated that such a decision should be respected. Additionally, he proposed the establishment of an online voting platform to streamline the process and make it more convenient for homeowners.