Timeline: University of Hong Kong leadership controversy

Fiona Chow

4 months ago

Timeline: University of Hong Kong leadership controversy

Last month, the council endorsed the appointment of several interim vice-president positions without consulting Zhang, prompting the president to seek legal advice as the row escalated. Here, the Post tracks the development of the ongoing saga.

September 2023: allegations against Zhang are raised

HKU’s governing council called a special meeting on September 29 after its members received documents from critics who leveled a raft of allegations against Zhang.

The anonymous emails accused Zhang of various wrongdoings, including mishandling donations, inappropriate recruitment practices, and preferential treatment based on university credentials.

October 2023: inquiry is launched

Following the allegations, an investigation panel was set up to look into the claims against Zhang. The panel pledged to deliver its findings within three months.

The panel ultimately cleared Zhang of any wrongdoing, leading to calls for the council to move forward.

May 2024: surprise senior management reshuffle

In a surprising turn of events, the council made significant senior management changes without consulting Zhang, leading to renewed tensions between him and the council.

The reshuffle was seen as a blow to Zhang’s authority and sparked further legal action from the president.

June 2024: tensions escalate as government steps in

As tensions continued to rise, the government intervened to investigate the conflict between Zhang and the council, aiming to facilitate communication and ensure proper use of university funds.

The ongoing saga at HKU highlights the challenges faced by academic institutions in balancing governance, leadership, and autonomy.

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