China’s Communist Party introduced rules to curb government waste, banning expensive items like alcohol and gourmet dishes during work meals, and prohibiting lavish flower arrangements. The measures, prompted by economic challenges such as the US trade war and slower growth, also include restrictions on seeing off guests at airports.
The State Council issued austerity guidelines for government funds use, emphasizing diligence, opposing waste, and promoting a culture of frugality, as reported by Xinhua. People’s Daily praised the regulations as upholding the party’s tradition, while a Shanghai Paper editorial highlighted their role in shaping values towards viewing waste as shameful and frugality as respectable.
Analysts believe the current campaign reflects Xi Jinping’s efforts to assert control over the party amidst uncertainties. According to David Bandurski, campaigns like these are more focused on power and legitimacy rather than promoting clean governance. This isn’t the first time Xi has targeted official excess; a similar frugality campaign was initiated in 2012 as part of his anti-corruption push.
In 2023, the central government urged officials to tighten spending, part of Xi’s initiative against flaunting wealth. China also introduced a $1.40 trillion debt plan to assist local governments and stabilize the economy. This marked a shift away from aggressive stimulus efforts to spur growth. Public outrage over officials’ wealth, such as cases of luxury watches, has led to investigations and imprisonment.
Sources News From Various Digital Platforms, Websites, Journalists, And Agencies.
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