Suchergebnisse

By challenging the Chinese to consider not only the accountability of their government, but also issues of openness, trust, responsiveness, and the 'right to know,' the sars crisis seems likely to provide a major impetus to new thinking about relations between society and state.

Although the 16th National Party Congress was billed as one of political succession, the stage clearly belonged to 76-year-old Jiang Zemin, whose political report endorsed his major themes, including the controversial proposal to admit entrepreneurs into the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Revisions to the Party charter endorsed Jiang's "three represents" and equated Jiang's accomplishments with those of Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping. Hu Jintao, widely expected to be the star of the show, was reduced to applauding Jiang's accomplishments. Although Hu (59) was named general secretary of the CCP as expected, Jiang packed the Politburo and its Standing Committee with his allies and retained his position as head of the Party's Central Military Commission (CMC). Although Hu may eventually assume real power, the outcome of the congress made clear that meaningful political succession remains at least five years away. In forcefully asserting his power, Jiang opens up questions about the degree to which political governance, particularly at the top of the system, has been institutionalized.

President Hu Jintao & Prime Minister Wen Jiabao of the People's Republic of China face unprecedented challenges to their leadership, due to the speed & authority with which Hu is moving politically. He supports the constitutions & the rule of law, & upholds the fight against corruption in juxtaposition to the activities of Juang Zemin, the head of the Central Military Commission. Hu's initiatives include great news coverage (albeit with censorship) & the placement of associates in important provincial positions. His handling of the early 2003 SARS crisis is described. The outcome of this crisis will make or break his presidency & the promises he made on economics & education during his campaign. M. Pflum