The Chinese government has intensified its crackdown on the internet, describing online criticism of the ruling Communist party as illegal and airing a televised confession from one of China’s most popular online commentators.
An article in yesterday’s edition of the influential party journal Seeking Truth described online criticism of the party and government as “defamation”, while Chinese-American investor and internet personality Charles Xue appeared on state television in handcuffs on Sunday to praise legislation that in effect criminalises online dissent.
The moves are part of a campaign launched in recent weeks by newly installed President Xi Jinping to stifle calls for political reform and assert control over the country’s unruly websites.