In a surprising turn of events, Hu Xijin, the former editor-in-chief of the state-affiliated media outlet Global Times, known for its pro-Communist Party stance, took to Weibo on October 13th to criticize the strict control of speech. Hu Xijin highlighted how people are becoming more cautious in expressing themselves online due to decreasing societal tolerance, sparking discussions and speculations. Some suggest that his remarks before the upcoming Fourth Plenum could be related to power struggles within the higher echelons of the Communist Party.
Hu Xijin pointed out that many individuals, from celebrities to university professors and corporate executives, are now more reserved with their online presence. He lamented the loss of diverse opinions in the public discourse, attributing it to a society that is becoming less tolerant. He expressed concerns over the shrinking space for public voices in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of a more open and inclusive society where different perspectives can coexist.
However, Hu Xijin refrained from directly blaming the Communist regime for speech control and instead highlighted the rise of online harassment as a key factor. He stressed the need for a more relaxed approach within the constitutional order led by the Party, warning against the potential negative consequences of silencing certain groups within society.
The reactions to Hu Xijin’s Weibo post were mixed, with some questioning his sincerity and accusing him of serving conflicting interests. Others criticized his indirect approach to addressing government censorship and control of public discourse, viewing it as deflecting from the real issue at hand. Despite the backlash, Hu Xijin’s post remained unremoved on Weibo as per the latest update from October 14th.
Entrepreneur Hu Liren, based in the United States, raised concerns over the heightened control of public opinion under Xi Jinping’s leadership, noting the establishment of a comprehensive surveillance system through digital political files for every citizen. This Orwellian level of control surpasses the methods used in the Mao era, even affecting prominent figures within the Communist system like Hu Xijin, who felt compelled to voice his grievances in such a restrictive environment.
Some netizens on the platform questioned Hu Xijin’s motives, suggesting that his actions could inadvertently serve the Party’s agenda by stirring up dissent among the population. The intricate dynamics of online censorship and self-censorship amid government scrutiny were underscored by commentators dissecting Hu Xijin’s commentary and its implications on public discourse in China.
Leading up to the Fourth Plenum, analyst Li Lin commented that Hu Xijin’s remarks, while fitting his typical rhetoric of minor dissent to maintain a facade of objectivity, could still be seen as a sensitive maneuver given the political climate. Hu Xijin’s ability to navigate these delicate waters reflects a nuanced understanding of the power dynamics at play within the Communist Party, hinting at potential tensions brewing among the elites as the party prepares for its upcoming political summit.