The government's controversial proposal comes after large pro-democracy protests last year, posing a significant challenge to Beijing's Communist Party rule since the handover of the former British colony to Chinese control in 1997. Analysts believe that the blueprint, set to be voted on by lawmakers early in the summer, may reignite political tensions after a period of calm. Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying warned reporters that the city's political climate could become less accommodating, stating that there is currently no room for compromise and initiating political reform will be difficult. Leung stated that if the proposal is rejected, it may take a few years before another chance arises. Outside the Legislative Council, hundreds of demonstrators waved flags in support of the proposal, with some advocating for Hong Kong to progress. A smaller group carried yellow umbrellas, a symbol of the democracy movement, and called for "true universal suffrage" while also demanding Leung's resignation. Democratic lawmakers, wearing yellow crosses on black shirts and some carrying yellow umbrellas, left the chamber following the government's presentation. Last year, thousands of pro-democracy demonstrators blocked major roads in four districts of the city, calling for Beijing to allow a truly democratic vote and open nominations for Hong Kong's next chief executive in 2017. Despite their protests being ignored and the police forcefully clearing the protest encampments in December, the government has continued to support the proposal for a public vote on candidates pre-selected by a pro-Beijing nominating committee. The Hong Kong government has refused to make any concessions to persuade democratic lawmakers, who have promised to veto the proposal when it comes up for formal approval. The opposition group has a veto bloc of one-third, but Leung, who is supported by Beijing, is optimistic that he can convince four or five democrats to change their stance. Activists who led the "Occupy" movement last year criticize a vote without open nominations as not being true democracy. Hong Kong, although part of China, operates as a special administrative region with its own legal system and freedoms that are not allowed in mainland China.