Tens of thousands of people have joined a demonstration in Hong Kong calling for a fully-democratic political system in the Chinese autonomous territory.
Trade unions, activists and civic groups marched with ordinary citizens, some carrying banners denouncing China.
In response to mass protests in 2003 and 2004, the authorities have offered to enlarge the election committee that chooses the territory's next leader.
However, campaigners say the proposals do not go far enough.
The BBC's Chris Hogg in Hong Kong says the march appears to be much larger than many had predicted, with many ordinary citizens and their families taking part.
Our correspondent says the rally organisers hope a large turnout will send a clear message to Beijing that they want direct leadership elections and a fully-elected parliament.
Timetable for change
The chief executive is currently chosen by a committee made up of about 800 Hong Kong residents selected by Beijing.
But the island's constitutional document, or Basic Law, contains provisions for ultimately electing the leader by universal suffrage.
However, China has refused implement such reforms to allow the people of Hong Kong to elect their next leader in two years time.
Pro-democracy campaigners say if that remains the case, they should be given a timetable and told when they will be allowed to vote for who rules them.
One lawmaker, Lee Cheuk Yan, said people "are very much disappointed" over the long wait.
But the chairman of Hong Kong's General Chamber of Commerce, David Eldon, said pushing for a timetable was not that important.
"You've got to get the building blocks in place so that when we do have universal suffrage, it's built on a solid platform," Mr Eldon said.
Close scrutiny
In demonstrations in 2003 and 2004, 500,000 people have taken to the streets to protest against the policies of Hong Kong's government.
The rallies shook the administration and its political masters in Beijing. Some say they cost Hong Kong's former leader, Tung Chee-hwa, his job.
Our correspondent says the authorities in Hong Kong and the Chinese government have attempted to sound more conciliatory in recent days in an effort to take the heat out of this protest.
The administration in Hong Kong and their political masters in the Chinese capital will be watching this rally closely to see whether or not their efforts have worked, our correspondent.

Source : BBC