In a highly symbolic by-election, a former top civil servant known as "Hong Kong's conscience" has emerged victorious in a vote that many see as a referendum on democracy in the former British colony. Anson Chan, who previously served as deputy to the last British governor Chris Patten, secured the win, providing a boost to the city's pro-democracy political camp following a recent defeat in district council polls. Chan, 67, expressed her belief that the election results indicate a strong desire among Hong Kong citizens for universal suffrage by 2012, the next election for the city's leader. She emphasized the importance of genuine democracy in safeguarding freedoms, values, and building a fair and just society. Despite being returned to China in 1997, Hong Kong has retained significant autonomy in various aspects, though political reform remains a contentious issue. The city's constitution aims for universal suffrage as the ultimate goal of political reform, but lacks clarity on the timing and direction. The concept was not emphasized by the British until the end of colonial rule under Patten. Chan's victory margin against her main rival, Regina Ip, exceeded expectations despite polls showing a narrowing gap. Ma Ngok, associate professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, believes this demonstrates continued interest in democracy among the middle class in Hong Kong, despite economic improvements and closer ties with China. Beijing should consider this. The democratic camp's typical 60 percent support rate has decreased since 1997, prompting experts to suggest that they reconsider their focus on single issues during elections. Chan received 54 percent of the vote, leading James Sung of City University to call for a thorough review by the pan-democrats. Despite concerns about their response to changing political dynamics, Ip's strong performance highlighted the pro-Beijing camp's powerful election machinery. It also symbolized the resurgence of a politician known for attempting to pass an unpopular anti-subversion law in 2003 as security chief, which led to a massive protest and surprised leaders in Beijing. Analysts believe Ip, aged 57, is in a good position to run in the upcoming full Legislative Council elections. Currently, the chief executive is chosen by an 800-seat committee influenced by the Communist leadership in Beijing, with half of the legislature elected by the public and the rest selected by "functional constituencies" representing professions and special-interest groups.