William Wong Kam-fai, a lawmaker and associate dean at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, has resigned from the Legislative Council following his arrest on suspicion of drink-driving and involvement in a hit-and-run incident. The resignation, announced on July 25, marks the first time in over two decades that a Hong Kong legislator has stepped down amid a scandal.

Wong, 66, was arrested late Monday after he lost control of his vehicle near a staff residence on the university campus, striking a parked car that was pushed into another. He reportedly left the scene but later returned, failing a breathalyser test administered by police. No injuries were reported, although all three vehicles sustained damage. Wong faces charges including drink-driving, careless driving, and failing to stop and report an accident. He has been released on bail and is scheduled to report to police in late July.

Following the arrest, the Chinese University suspended Wong from his administrative duties pending investigation. A university spokesperson emphasized the institution’s commitment to professional ethics and said it would refrain from further comment while the police inquiry continues.

In his resignation statement, Wong apologized for the distress caused to both society and the Legislative Council, citing a desire to avoid disruption to the legislature's operations. He also noted that due to the ongoing investigation, he could not comment further but intends to continue serving the community in other capacities. Wong is additionally a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and observers have suggested he may soon relinquish this role as well.

Legislative Council President Starry Lee Wai-king expressed respect for Wong’s decision and gratitude for his contributions to the council and Hong Kong. Political observers described the swift resignation as appropriate, suggesting it serves to minimize harm to both Wong’s personal reputation and the integrity of Hong Kong’s governance structures. Some commentators highlighted the importance of upholding the principle of patriot-administered Hong Kong, warning that retention of the post under such circumstances could have invited greater criticism.

This incident comes amid heightened expectations for accountability among public officials. Earlier this year, another legislator, Judy Chan Kapui, faced legal penalties and a formal warning from the legislature after a traffic violation. Wong’s case has further drawn public attention to the conduct standards expected of elected representatives.

The last Hong Kong legislator to resign due to scandal was Gary Cheng Kai-nam in 2000, who left office following revelations of undisclosed business interests and was later convicted of multiple offences.

Wong’s legal outcome will be determined by the courts, while his decision to step down underscores the increasing demands for transparency and responsibility within Hong Kong’s political framework.