Thousands March for Democracy in Hong Kong

Protesters carry statue of the Goddess of Democracy while marching to Hong Kong government headquarters Saturday, July 1, 2006, as they demand full democracy. Thousands of people march through Hong Kong on Saturday to demand full democracy, as the former British colony marks the ninth anniversary of its return to Chinese rule. Hong Kong was promised broad autonomy when it was returned to China on July 1, 1997 under a "One country, Two systems" formula, but Beijing has ruled out full democracy for the territory for the next few years. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung) (Kin Cheung - AP)

"But the main cause is that people are really angry at the government's lack of progress in democratic reforms," she said.

Among the protesters was social worker Au Kit-lin, 48, who said she turned up to voice her demands for more democracy.

"It's precisely because Beijing rejected our demands that I have to come out and shout so they'll know what we want," said Au.

Retiree Wang Bei, 74, said, "The society is far from harmonious now. I must treasure my right to protest and fight for full voting rights."

The turnout for Saturday's march, which started at Victoria Park, was being closely watched by both the governments in Hong Kong and Beijing, which have stressed the importance of the city's stability and economic prosperity over political changes.

In a speech Saturday, Hong Kong leader Tsang highlighted the importance of economic growth and building a harmonious society. He did not mention political reform.

"As our economy gains momentum in its growth, we must grasp the opportunity to keep it in good shape so that we could live up to our country's expectations for Hong Kong," he told guests at a ceremony celebrating the territory's return to China nine years ago.

The ceremony was briefly disrupted when well-known, radical lawmaker Leung Kwok-hung yelled, "End (China's) one-party dictatorship!" just ahead of Tsang's speech. Leung was asked to leave before he could protest further.