In a commentary published in several Chinese-language newspapers, the chief executive-elect questions the motive behind the calls, and suggests it may be another form of filibustering.

"The purpose of the restructuring plan is to improve on those areas which have been lacking. It is aimed at providing a better service to the public while boosting governance," Leung wrote.

"When we think deeper into it, the calls by different [Legco] panels for meetings to discuss the government restructuring proposal is similar to filibustering."

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As an example, he said the housing panel is calling for a meeting to discuss the proposal to merge the Transport and Housing Bureau and Development Bureau into the Housing, Planning and Lands Bureau. Such a bureau had existed from 2002 to 2007, so he is merely turning back the clock.

However, pan-democrats quickly fired back, accusing Leung of interfering and trying to suppress Legco affairs.

"I don't see why he has to intervene. Of course he does not want us to call the meetings. He wants us to pass whatever the government wants," Democratic Party lawmaker Lee Wing-tat said.

Lee also said the article indicates Leung is trying to set up a dictatorship by giving orders to Legco.

Civic Party lawmaker Alan Leong Kah-kit said Leung is trying to put pressure on Legco. He said some of the previous restructuring by government had failed, and subsequently it is important for Leung to clearly explain his proposals to the public.

Legco president Jasper Tsang Yok- sing said he does not think Leung is pressuring Legco, while Fanny Law Fan Chiu-fun, who heads the office of the next leader, said he is not trying to intervene in affairs.