Hong Kong calls for democratic elections

Thousands of rain soaked demonstrators today marched through the streets of Hong Kong calling for democratic election to be held in the country by 2017.

The annual pro-democracy march commemorates the handover of Hong Kong to China by the British on 1 July 1997. Observers believe this year's event is the precursor of a nationwide civil disobedience campaign. The Occupy Central movement threatened to shut down Hong Kong's financial district on 1 July 2014 through the organisation of mass rallies.

The leadership of the current chief executive was heavily criticised by protestors. Amid fears of meddling by Beijing's Communist Party leaders, the majority of participants called for the resignation of Hong Kong's CEO CY Leung and challenged his authority to promise governmental decisions. Protestors also voiced their concerns over poverty and freedom of press.

Currently elected by a group of 1,200 electors, the nation's top official confirmed the government's committal to introduce full democracy by 2017. However Leung stated the consultations will begin at an appropriate time. Granting citizens the right to vote in Hong Kong's executive elections is seen as a major task for the Hong Kong government.