‘Nine Commentaries’: Three Years, 28 Million Voices for Freedom

‘Nine Commentaries’: Three Years, 28 Million Voices for Freedom
People take part in a demonstration in Washington, DC, on October 28, 2006. Nicholas Kamm/AFP/Getty Images
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China’s 17th Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, which took place last month in Beijing, seemingly concluded without a glitch. However, beneath the highly polished surface of modern China, a tide of dissent continues to grow across the full spectrum of society.

At first glance, the Chinese Communist Party—which now claims membership of around 73 million people—would appear set to continue ruling China indefinitely, and with a tight grip on their reigns of power. Party leader Hu Jintao reassured the delegates that the Party would continue its role in providing “the core of leadership in directing the overall situation” of China.