The Chinese government has responded to the massive pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, saying it won't reverse its decision to screen candidates based on their patriotism to China in the territory's first direct elections.
"The central government will not rescind its decision," Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying said, nor would he step down before the elections slated for 2017.
The protests in the Asian financial hub have entered their fifth day of sit-ins by thousands of protesters -- many high school and university students -- blocking main highways.
"The people on the streets are here because we've made the decision ourselves and we will only leave when we have a achieved something," 20-year-old Hong Kong Institute of Education student Chloe Cheung said. "We are waiting for the government to respond to our demands for democracy and a say in what the elections will be like."
On Sunday, police used tear gas to disperse the crowds.
Some are concerned the ongoing protests could affect Asia's financial markets, but protesters passed a peaceful night Monday as crowds sang anthems calling for freedom and for Hong Kong's leader to resign.
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