Sep 25, 2024, 10:26 AM
Sep 24, 2024, 11:08 PM

Chinese economist vanishes after criticizing Xi Jinping's policies

Provocative
Highlights
  • Zhu Hengpeng, a Chinese economist, has disappeared after criticizing Xi Jinping's economic policies in a private WeChat group.
  • His remarks included references to Xi's mortality and the sluggish economy, leading to his detention.
  • Zhu's case reflects a broader crackdown on dissent in China amid growing economic concerns.
Story

Zhu Hengpeng, a prominent economist and deputy director at the Institute of Economics at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, has reportedly vanished after making critical remarks about President Xi Jinping's economic policies in a private WeChat group. His comments, which allegedly referenced Xi's mortality and discussed the sluggish state of China's economy, led to his detention shortly after they were made. Zhu has not been seen in public since April 2024, following an event organized by Caixin, a Chinese media outlet. The disappearance of Zhu comes amid a broader crackdown on dissent within China, particularly regarding criticism of Xi's leadership and governance. Reports indicate that there has been a significant shake-up in the management of the institute where Zhu worked, with key figures being removed from their positions. This suggests a tightening grip on those who may voice dissenting opinions, especially concerning the country's economic challenges. China's economy has been struggling, failing to meet its modest growth target of 5 percent, with GDP growth declining further in July 2024. This downturn is attributed to the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and the strict 'zero Covid' policies that were implemented. The situation has raised concerns among the public and analysts about the government's ability to manage the economy effectively. Zhu's case is not isolated; other prominent figures, including former foreign minister Qin Gang and former Global Times editor Hu Xijin, have also faced similar fates after expressing controversial views. This trend highlights the increasing risks associated with speaking out against the government in China, particularly in the context of economic instability.

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