Chinese Communist Party vows stricter checks on officials and families

BEIJING, November 2 — The Chinese Communist Party is preparing to intensify its scrutiny of officials' assets and online behavior, according to a party document released on Sunday. This announcement follows the annual plenary session of the CCP, which took place this week in Beijing and centered on governance and the fight against corruption.

President Xi Jinping has been particularly aggressive in targeting corruption during his tenure, resulting in the removal of thousands of officials and purging several members of his inner circle, including top military officials. The resolution published by the party details its future policy focus, emphasizing stricter oversight of officials.

"Starting with high-ranking officials, we will tighten all-around management and regular oversight of officials, imposing strict requirements throughout their career," the resolution states. Officials with personal assets and expenditures significantly surpassing their normal incomes will be subject to increased examination, and relevant verifications will be conducted.

The resolution further mentions that the business activities of officials' spouses and children will also receive heightened scrutiny. Additionally, the party will enhance its regulation of officials' online activities. The resolution also outlines plans to combat corruption involving virtual currencies and blockchain technology.

The annual plenary session concluded on Thursday, with a resolution on "advancing full and rigorous governance of the party," which aims to reduce corruption among cadres. State media confirmed 33 more dignitaries had been removed from their positions, including former Politburo member Zhang Youxia, a former China's highest-ranking general.

While supporters argue that China's anti-corruption campaign promotes clean governance, critics contend that these measures are part of a strategy to ensure Xi Jinping's continued leadership at the upcoming Party Congress in the second half of 2027. The Central Committee resolution also calls for improved intraparty democracy by providing more avenues for members to voice their opinions and encouraging them to express themselves freely.

"We must uphold and improve the systems for exercising intraparty democracy, respect the principal position of Party members, and safeguard their democratic rights," the resolution asserts.