Macau Chief Justice Resigns to Run for Office

Sam Hou Fai has resigned from his position as president of Macau’s Court of Final Appeal, effective August 28, signaling his intention to run for Chief Executive after incumbent Ho Iat Seng announced he would not seek re-election due to health concerns. This marks a significant political shift, as it is the first time a Chief Executive will not serve a second term. The nomination period for candidates begins August 29, with the election scheduled for October 13, and candidates must secure at least 66 endorsements from the 400-member Electoral Commission. Sam, who has extensive legal experience, expressed a longstanding desire to serve Macau, and is expected to be a leading candidate, with Jorge Chiang as the only other contender announced so far. His resignation fulfills the legal requirement for judicial officers to step down before entering the political race. Observers predict that the election will likely result in Sam running unopposed, maintaining the status quo in Macau's governance.