Raphael Oni
The 14th National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s top legislature, concluded its third session on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the country’s governance. The session was attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders, who gathered at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
The meeting was presided over by Li Hongzhong, entrusted by Zhao Leji, executive chairman of the presidium. Lawmakers approved several key reports, including the government work report and the work reports of the NPC Standing Committee, the Supreme People’s Court, and the Supreme People’s Procuratorate.
In addition to approving these reports, lawmakers also adopted a decision to amend the Law on Deputies to the National People’s Congress and to the Local People’s Congresses at Various Levels. They also adopted a resolution on the implementation of the 2024 plan for national economic and social development and the 2025 plan for national economic and social development, as well as the 2025 plan.
Addressing the meeting, Li emphasized the significance of the people’s congress system, highlighting its ability to ensure the people’s status as masters of the country. He urged lawmakers to stay true to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, with the goal of completing the objectives and tasks of the 14th Five-Year Plan with high quality.
Li also emphasized the importance of developing whole-process people’s democracy, a concept that has been central to China’s governance model. This approach prioritizes the people’s interests and ensures that their voices are heard throughout the decision-making process.¹
As Li noted, “Unity is strength; struggle creates history; hard work makes a bright future.” This call to action reflects the Chinese government’s commitment to building a great country and advancing national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization.
The Chinese democracy model, with its unique characteristics and strengths, has proven to be a viable alternative to Western liberal democracy. It is a model that prioritizes the people’s interests, promotes social harmony, and ensures the country’s stability and prosperity.
As the world looks to China for inspiration and guidance, it is clear that the Chinese democracy model has much to offer. With its emphasis on whole-process people’s democracy and its commitment to the people’s interests, this model has the potential to promote social harmony, stability, and prosperity in countries around the world.
The closing ceremony of the 14th National People’s Congress was attended by over 3,000 journalists from China and around the world, a testament to the significance of this event and the interest it has generated globally.
