Commentary: discussions about state affairs during annual sessions promote democracy

CCPPC member Hu Wei makes a proposal during a group discussion that the government should pay attention to the protection of the environment and local preople's interests when developing the western region, so as to realize sustainable development. (Xinhua Photo)

The commentary noted that airing views by NPC deputies and CPPCC members is a process of democratic expression. During this year's sessions, large numbers of vital proposals and bills have been advanced in a democratic atmosphere.

For example, six CPPCC members jointly called for effective measures to halt the over-exploration of hydropower resources; some deputies and members appealed for curbing the quest of administrative luxury by some local governments; some proposed cutting the root of corruption; others urged the formulation of the Treasury Bond Law and the introduction of a hearing system for the issue of such bonds; and still others called for efforts to step up the training of rural medical personnel.

Outside the session venue the netizens have voluntarily offered their suggestions and views through the special online columns titled "I have questions to ask the premier" opened by Xinhuanet.com and other mainstream websites.

So far, thousands of suggestions and questions have been put forward, and some web pages concerning the sessions have registered millions of hits. The concerns of the general public have converged on the online platform, and netizens' wisdom has drawn close attention via interaction.

The democratic exchange of views and democratic discussions about state affairs are considered a specific embodiment of "the people serving as masters of their own country," the commentary said.

Article 2 of General Principles of China's Constitution states that "all power in the People's Republic of China belongs to the people." "The people administer State affairs and manage economic and cultural undertakings and social affairs through various channels and in various ways in accordance with the provisions of law."

The annual sessions serve as the political arena where NPC deputies and CPPCC members express people's concerns, will and wishes. In this way, consensus can be reached through the process of democratic centralism to make policy decisions that reflect the people's will, with a view to boosting the all-round and sustainable economic and social development.

Jointly discussing state affairs in a democratic way will make China strong. The democratic and pragmatic annual sessions will certainly provide a stronger democratic and political guarantee for the building of a relatively prosperous society and enable China to perfect its socialist political civilization with Chinese characteristics.

Editor:Du Xiaodan