The Legislative Council election has arguably never been more important. On one hand, it will be the first litmus test of people’s sentiments towards the sweeping political changes imposed by Beijing in the wake of the social unrest in 2019. On the other hand, it is closely watched by foreign powers and bodies, many of which have become increasingly critical of the city’s development. That explains the escalating rhetoric from different sides as the ballot draws near. In a rare appeal for people to vote on December 19, the State Council’s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office director Xia Baolong…