The passing of former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji has sparked a wave of nostalgia and reflection among the Chinese people, prompting a unique blend of public mourning and government censorship. Zhu, a key figure in China's economic reforms, has left behind a legacy that contrasts sharply with the current political climate under President Xi Jinping.
The Legacy of Zhu Rongji
Zhu Rongji's era as premier, from 1998 to 2003, was marked by significant economic reforms. He oversaw the shuttering of unprofitable state firms, the establishment of a commercial property market, and China's entry into global trade, including its accession to the World Trade Organization in 2001. These reforms were not without their challenges, but they set China on a path of rapid economic growth.
What many Chinese citizens seem to miss from that era is not just the economic progress, but also the style and candor of Zhu and his contemporaries. Zhu was known for his blunt, humorous remarks, which stood in stark contrast to the carefully crafted image of the current leadership. His ability to connect with the public and his straightforward approach to governance are fondly remembered.
Censorship and Control
The Chinese government, however, is cautious about allowing public mourning for Zhu's era to turn into criticism of the present. State media has described Zhu as a loyal Communist Party member, but online posts and essays commemorating his time in office have been heavily censored. This is a common practice by the Chinese authorities, who fear that public grief over the deaths of senior officials could lead to protests, as seen in the past with the deaths of Zhou Enlai and Hu Yaobang.
Xi's Narrative vs. Nostalgia
President Xi Jinping's leadership style and economic policies differ significantly from those of Zhu Rongji and his contemporaries. Xi has emphasized central control, state-driven economic policies, and technological autonomy. In a recent speech, Xi called on the Communist Party to carry forward Jiang Zemin's legacy, presenting the current leadership as a continuation of that era's political and ideological project. He emphasized the need to be vigilant against potential dangers and to meet challenges head-on.
However, China is currently facing economic and demographic challenges, including slower growth, high youth unemployment, and declining house prices. This has led many Chinese citizens to look back on Zhu's era with a sense of loss and nostalgia. As one commentator, Zhao Jian, wrote, 'Life was hard, but it was hardship sustained by hope.' Many now question why, despite material abundance, they feel a sense of emptiness.
Conclusion
The mourning of Zhu Rongji's death is a complex blend of personal reflection, collective nostalgia, and political commentary. It highlights the tension between the Chinese people's desire for openness, freedom, and the common touch of their leaders, and the government's need for control and adherence to a unified narrative. As China moves forward, the legacy of Zhu Rongji and his era of reform will continue to be a point of reference and reflection, both for the government and the people.
