{
  "id": 19916846,
  "title": "Stiffer proxy-vote checks set for flat owners' votes",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/14/stiffer-proxy-vote-checks-set-for-flat-owners-votes-19916846",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-14T03:32:56.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "RTHK News",
    "slug": "rthk-news",
    "url": "https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1877791-20261114.htm"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Hong Kong is set to introduce stricter verification measures for proxy votes at property owners' corporation meetings. Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Alice Mak, revealed the new checks will require sign-off from both the property owner and the proxy representative. Mak explained that these checks are more effective than a numerical cap on proxy votes, as they ensure the proxy system is not abused. The government received 550 submissions during a month-long public consultation on proposed amendments to the Building Management Ordinance. While many supported clearer thresholds for major maintenance works and stronger proxy requirements, some opposed the proposed cap on the number of proxy votes a person could hold, citing difficulties in applying the limit. Instead, the verification process will involve both parties signing the forms and providing contact details. The property owner must also declare they are aware of the meeting's details, and the representative must confirm they are representing the genuine owner. In-person voting thresholds will be tiered based on the apportioned cost of major maintenance works, encouraging more owners to participate in building management and maintenance decisions.",
  "summary": "Hong Kong is putting in place a verification regime for proxy votes at property owners’ corporation meetings, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak said on Saturday. Checks requiring both parties to sign and declare are, she said, \"more effective\" than a prescribed cap on the number of proxy votes a flat owner's representative can hold. Speaking on an RTHK radio programme, Mak said the…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}