Former Hong Kong Chief Executive, Donald Tsang (pictured), has become subject of media interest as his property – a planned retirement home is being scrutinised.
The penthouse apartment was reportedly surveyed by undercover reporters. Upon seeing the property located in Shenzhen, the reporters doubted how Tsang could afford its high rental, considering the modest monthly stipend he will receive after retirement.
In addition, a Shenzhen housing agent claimed that Tsang allegedly received the apartment for free, in opposition to Tsang’s claims that he would rent the property.
According to Ming Pao Daily News, the 6,500 sq ft unit is at least HK$50 million (S$8 million). The unit takes up the 35th to 37th floors of an upscale building located in the Futian District, near the Hong Kong border.
A South China Morning Post report said that the apartment comprises over a dozen rooms with separate toilets. The master bedroom has an attached bathroom and three coat rooms.
Hong Kong public legislator Lee Tat Wing called on Tsang to answer these allegations, especially on how he expects to pay for the apartment and whether he will pay market rate.
However, Tsang has remained quiet on the issue.
According to the tabloid Apple Daily, the building is owned by Hong Kong businessman Wong Cho Bau’s East Pacific Group. Wong also holds a majority stake in Digital Broadcasting Corporation (DBC), a radio station that started operating last year.
Tsang is said to have suspicious links to Wong and the DBC after he unusually invoked special power waiving the rule that bars a former secretary of education to be appointed as the Chairman of DBC.
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