1st August 2024 – (Macao) After a prolonged 39-day “leisurely break”, Macao Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng has finally returned to work, making his first public appearance at an event hosted by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) garrison in Macao.
Ho’s extended absence had raised concerns among the public, with the Macao government remaining tight-lipped about the reasons for his extended leave and his health status. However, the government has now confirmed that Ho attended the PLA’s celebratory event on Tuesday, marking his first physical attendance at an official function since the start of his vacation.
The 39-day break was divided into three separate periods. Ho first announced a 13-day leave from 21st June, then extended it by another 16 days until 19th July. On 20th July, he took a further 10-day break, resulting in a total of 39 days away from his official duties.
During this time, Ho did make one virtual appearance, delivering a video message for the launch of a youth exchange programme between Hong Kong, Macao and Zhejiang on 23rd July. However, he did not physically attend any events.
The Macao government had previously stated that Ho’s leave was for a routine health check-up and necessary medical treatment, and that his condition was good. However, the administration had remained tight-lipped on the specifics of his condition and the reasons for the extended leave.
The Chief Executive’s return to work comes just two days after the scheduled end of his latest 10-day break on 30th July. The Macao government had not provided any updates on whether Ho would resume his duties as planned on that date.
With Ho’s reappearance at the PLA event, the Macao administration has finally broken its silence on the Chief Executive’s prolonged absence from public view. The government’s willingness to share this information suggests an effort to address the growing public curiosity and concerns surrounding Ho’s extended “leisurely break”.
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