Voting in the Party Internal Elections
Voting can be both an exciting yet daunting task, especially when there are so many candidates and it is not clear to see how many positions are available for each committee. The list of candidates is truly extensive this election time and among them are some incredibly noteworthy names we would like to highlight and amplify.
Having extra time to be able to know more about each candidate really helps and here holds my recommendations for you on behalf of the Chinese Libdems:
Sarah Cheung Johnson, Merlene Emerson and Larry Ngan are not only candidates with a CESEA (Chinese E & SE Asian) background, but hold dear the values and ambitions of the party.
Sarah Cheung Johnson applying for the Federal Council
Sarah is the Chair of CLD and ensures that everyone of all levels, ethnicity, experiences, abilities, neurotypes, gender, identity and backgrounds can not only feel respected and be heard freely and without prejudice, but that we all together as a society can act together and with society accomplish great things believed to be difficult or impossible. From the environment, to creating opportunities for all to excel in safety in times of financial disruption.
I am a mum of 2 lovely autistic mixed-race children, I found Sarah someone I know really understands our family and inspires me. She has helped me gain confidence in not just advocating for their rights but also in understanding our community more deeply and the values we collectively share. Truly, an extremely friendly and positive person who makes everyone feel valued and empowered.
The support for Sarah's candidacy is strong (not just me) and I highly suggest looking at her manifesto to see the personal statements on-line. Her experience in campaigning and local government, keen analytical skills, tact whilst not being afraid to hold to account and approachableness makes her an ideal candidate for the Federal Council. There is so much Sarah can deliver and do! I hope you consider her in your vote.
Merlene Emerson applying for the ALDE delegation
Merlene was the original co-founder of the CLD back in 2006 and has specific experience in the ALDE delegation (having been elected in 2019) and has served on the Financial Advisory Committee for the last 3 years. Still an integral and inspiring part of the CLD Executive Committee, I can certainly testify to her empowering actions in putting into force racial equality and ensuring all members of the Asian community can be heard equally and fairly, with respect and in safety.
With 16 years of experience in policy making and campaigning, she has not only made vital contributions to our community but beyond, and is ensuring the bond we share with the ALDE party remains strong with opportunities to further strengthen. Currently, Merlene in conjunction with the Paddy Ashdown Forum is creating a collection of essays "EU and ASEAN - Enhancing the Strategic Partnership". This research will encourage better understanding and aid potential future candidates of minority backgrounds into getting involved and joining in. I am looking forward to reading it! There is so much Merlene can do and offer in the ALDE delegation!
Larry Ngan is applying for a position with the Federal International Relations Committee
A keen human rights campaigner and co-founder of the Liberal Democrats Friends of Hong Kong, Larry has an amazing background and wealth of experience - a person whose works I have learnt a lot from and broadened my view.
His research on Chinese history , foreign policy and economic policy, in both Mainland China and Hong Kong in conjunction with his experiences of living in Hong Kong, has already helped so many to protect their freedom to speak freely and with confidence, a thing Larry wishes to broaden so much more and has created a 'political mission', outlining future goals clearly and with human rights, Ukraine and trade at the fore.
Larry's ability to amplify and secure the voices of people whilst creating workable solutions with fellow European nations shows what a delicate yet important balance he is able to undertake. With the opportunity to excel and expand on these ideals, it would be rewarding to see just what Larry can do in this position.
In reading this, I hope that you can feel encouraged to keep scrolling through all the information that is laid out in front of you on the screen when you look at the candidates to vote for in these elections.
I wish our 3 candidates mentioned here every success and good luck! Thank you for reading!