Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Government Axes Official Amid Outrage Over Travel Upgrades

1/23/2026

38 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ricky Cheng, chief of Hong Kong’s Tianjin office, was removed from his position on January 21, 2026, following public backlash over his social media posts.
Cheng had boasted about receiving free travel upgrades while on assignment.
The swift action by the government was met with approval from lawmakers and amusement from internet users.
His dismissal occurred just a day after local media highlighted his posts on Threads.

1 of 1

Story summary

Ricky Cheng, chief of Hong Kong’s Tianjin office, was removed from his position on January 21, 2026, following public backlash over his social media posts.
Cheng had boasted about receiving free travel upgrades while on assignment.
The swift action by the government was met with approval from lawmakers and amusement from internet users.
His dismissal occurred just a day after local media highlighted his posts on Threads.