The argument that you cannot comment or criticise the GC or NC unless you are actually on the GC or NC is utter nonsense!!
A fully paid member of the HKAOA has absolutely every right to be angry over what has happened. There has been a complete LACK of leadership from the President, and this has, as a whole been exceptionally poorly handled.
No member should have to 'step up' to be on the GC/NC to offer opinion on their actions. All members of the HKAOA team from the pilot body are VOLUNTEERS. No one asked them to be on the council. I'm afraid you 'live by the sword, and you die by the sword'.
You could make the same argument of politicians. Do you feel it is acceptable to criticise them when you do not agree with what they say, or would you meekly go along with whatever they want, as, hey, you're not an elected politician? Of course the pilot body has the right to criticise without being on the council!
We have to get real here guys. We have as an association failed miserably. We should all take responsibility for this, as a group of pilots, but ultimately, the Chairman and the council are responsible. I have long since felt we need professional negotiators employed full time to come up with solutions, not (albeit enthusiastic) wannabe amateur lawyers who are actually pilots!