Hong Kong leader to leave office

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam announced yesterday that she will step down in June, ending a divisive term that saw democracy protests squashed and strict pandemic curbs plunge the business hub into international isolation. Ending months of speculation, Lam confirmed she would not seek a second term when a committee made up of the city's political elite chooses a new leader next month. "I will complete my five-year term as chief executive on June 30, and officially conclude my 42-year career in government," Lam told reporters. Lam said China's leaders "understood and respected" her choice not to seek another term and that she wanted to spend more time with her family.