Hong Kong’s ex security chief John Lee said it was “not easy” to be the sole candidate to become the city’s next leader, as it was revealed he has gained sufficient nominations to enter the poll.

Lee is predicted to be named Hong Kong’s new chief executive next month by a committee of 1,500 Beijing loyalists. According to reports, Lee will not face any rivals in the election, at Beijing’s request.

The former head of security registered his candidacy on Wednesday with 786 committee nominations, exceeding the required legal threshold for him to win the election on 8th May.

When questioned whether the election journey is more straightforward without any rivals, Lee commented: "It is not easy because I have been working very hard to explain to various members what my election platform will be like."

Although he hasn’t as yet publicly released any firm policies or a manifesto, he said one would be published shortly.

"It has just been a few days since I announced to stand for the election. Writing the platform needs time," Lee stated. The nomination period comes to an end on Saturday.

Last week, when announcing his bid, John Lee revealed three key priorities for his government. These are being "results-orientated", boosting Hong Kong's competitiveness and consolidating the city's further development.

He has been visiting numerous progovernment groups and held five online conferences with members of the Election Committee to gain support.

"I think members agree with these three directions that is why they have given me the nomination, but it is a hard effort," Lee added.

However, according to former chief editor of the Hong Kong Economic Journal, Chan King-cheung, Lee should detail what his policies are, despite ordinary residents not receiving a vote. "To say 'result-oriented' without defining the result is so vague and empty that the 'voters' can't tell what promises he has actually made," he said.