A prominent Chinese economist, Zhu Hengpeng, recently vanished from the public eye after critiquing President Xi Jinping’s economic policies in a private WeChat group. Zhu, who worked at a government think tank, was reportedly detained for his comments, which included remarks on China’s economy and potential issues with President Xi. This disappearance is part of a pattern where individuals who criticize the Chinese government face repercussions.
The economic downturn in China, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns, has led to increased scrutiny and crackdowns on dissent. Elite figures like former Foreign Minister Qin Gang and Alibaba founder Jack Ma have also faced similar disappearances or demotions for speaking out against Chinese authorities.
These instances highlight the growing suppression of criticism in China under President Xi’s leadership. The world’s second-largest economy faces challenges, with GDP growth falling below target, prompting concerns about censorship and control over discussions on the economic slowdown. As dissenting voices disappear, the landscape of public discourse in China continues to evolve under President Xi’s rule.
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