China made remarkable achievements in its anti-corruption campaign in 2014. The government brought a large number of corrupt officials to justice irrespective of their position, which was applauded by people all over the country.

A strong environment for public opinion is needed to curb corrupt officials and their illegal behavior. Officials who are diligent and law abiding will be praised and supported by the public, while those who abuse their power will be severely punished. Social fairness and justice terrify corrupt officials. Therefore, all-round and deep-seated public participation is needed for keeping power in check.

The government may listen to the public and absorb their wisdom, guided by scientific and reasonable system and policy. Troubled systems should be improved in accordance with public opinion and through the efforts of the public, who should supervise the implementation of policy and various systems. The top-level design can be well practiced and bolster anti-corruption efforts only if it is based on efficient public participation.

Party members and cadres should actively learn from the masses and accept their supervision to curb corruption and uphold morals. Those who are closely connected with the people can be better disciplined and wholeheartedly fulfill their duties. Those who abuse their power and neglect the public tend to be pretentious. They are often guilty of misconduct, laziness and extravagance. Education and supervision by the masses can eradicate the “four undesirable work styles:” formalism, bureaucratism, hedonism and extravagance.
 

The process of combating corruption and upholding integrity also requires the removal of obstacles preventing public participation. On one hand, unfounded theories about the anti-corruption campaign “hindering economic growth” should be cleared up to encourage the public to actively participate in fighting corruption. The people are creators of history. In contrast with those who downplay effects of corruption on social and economic development, the masses are aware of the great role the anti-corruption campaign can play in changing methods, adjusting structure, stabilizing growth and improving people’s livelihoods.
 

On the other hand, an impartial and scientific system for recruitment of officials should be adopted, excluding those who do nothing for the people. The enthusiasm and vitality of the public should be constantly ignited in their participation of democratic management and supervision.
 

In looking to the future, rule-of-law governance for the country and Party will provide assurance for comprehensively deepening reform and building a moderately prosperous society. Public participation is urgently needed as the anti-corruption campaign enters a new stage. Proper measures should be made to explore the potential of public participation and improve the quality of public participation.

 

Zhou Quande is a research fellow from the Institute of Social Development at Henan Academy of Social Sciences.