Hongkongers are voting in an election seen as a test of public sentiment following a deadly fire that angered some in the city.
The government has mounted a huge campaign to encourage Hongkongers to choose members of the Legislative Council (LegCo). All of the candidates have been vetted to ensure they are loyal to China.
The election takes place as many are mourning the Tai Po fire last month which killed nearly 160 people.
In recent days, authorities have distributed aid to survivors, arrested suspects, and sought to improve building safety, as some Hongkongers raise questions about the incident.
A total of 161 candidates are competing for 90 seats in the LegCo, which acts as a mini parliament and can make and amend laws.
The election is the second since 2021 when China made sweeping changes to Hong Kong's electoral system to ensure only patriots could run for seats.
Beijing has said the changes, which were put in place shortly after the 2019 protests, were necessary to ensure stability in Hong Kong, but critics say they weakened democracy.
This year, the government has blanketed the city with posters urging Hongkongers to head to the polls, while dangling freebies and shopping discounts.
After casting their vote, each person will receive a thank you card that could be redeemed for vouchers in selected shops and restaurants, or for beauty services and medical check-ups.
Authorities are also offering free entry to public swimming pools and museums, organising carnivals, and holding a televised variety show.
Meanwhile, the city remains focused on the recent deadly fire that engulfed high-rise residential blocks at Wang Fuk Court. It was the worst blaze seen in over 70 years, raising serious questions about building safety.
The authorities have ordered the creation of an independent committee to investigate the cause of the fire and have arrested 13 people on suspected manslaughter.
Political campaigning was initially suspended due to the tragedy, but resumed amid criticisms of governance failures highlighted by the incident.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the fire, the government is keen to interpret a high voter turnout as a sign of legitimacy for its new political system, despite previous low participation rates and ongoing public discontent.
