Hong Kong’s most famous Canadian, Allan Zeman, is throwing his considerable weight behind a by-election that is being touted as a virtual referendum on democratic reform in the former British colony.

The by-election is for a seat on Hong Kong Island left vacant by the death from cancer in August of Ma Lik, former head of the territory’s largest pro-Beijing party, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong.

Regina Ip, Hong Kong’s tough-talking former secretary for security will face Anson Chan, the territory’s former top civil servant in the December 2 by-election.

Their election teams are already campaigning at full force to win every possible vote in Hong Kong’s legislative council.

Ip revealed an election team that draws names from a cross section of society, including former chief secretary David Akers- Jones, political party leaders Tam Yiu- chung and James Tien Pei-chun, pan-democrat Louis Shih Tai-cho, a film producer, a pop singer and TV artists.

But what makes her team even more special is the inclusion of the “Father of Lan Kwai Fong,” Allan Zeman.

Zeman’s history and strong association with the middle class will help strengthen Ip’s appeal to ordinary voters.

Zeman grew up in Montreal, Canada. He started work at the age of 10, and was with a lingerie company by 19. Zeman made his first fortune by importing clothes from Hong Kong. He traveled frequently to the territory and eventually moved here in the mid-70s.

He felt there was not a Western restaurant to his taste — so opened his own in Lan Kwai Fong in 1983. The next year he bought the entire block and has since followed a career as an entertainer and property developer.

He is seen as the “Father of Lan Kwai Fong” because of his success in turning a narrow street in Central into a world-famous nightlife district.

In 2004, Zeman became the Ocean Park chairman. He has been given many titles by the media, including property tycoon, entertainment guru, business whiz, movie producer, and theme park saviour.

His image is positive and unconventional, and Ip has made a smart move in securing his support.

Zeman’s decision to throw his weight behind Ip is a blow to Chan, who had also approached him for support. He said he backed Ip because she “also supports universal suffrage, the same as Anson, but she is more all-rounded and a better communicator with China.”