It goes without saying that accountability and the aptitude to respond effectively to events are crucial for people in power. Domestically, governments are required to address the needs of the people they serve and be answerable for their policies and mistakes. Internationally, they are expected to foster trust and cooperation and act as responsible global citizens. Such qualities are not readily available on the mainland, though. Officials are not known for being proactive in engaging the masses. Decision-making also lacks transparency, leaving much room for speculation and misunderstanding.

At a State Council meeting last week, Premier Li Keqiang reportedly told ministers to take a more proactive approach in addressing concerns and misunderstandings among the people. He cited a recent case of confusion over real estate regulations as an example. Although the rules were made to make registration easier, they were misinterpreted as restrictions on property rights. He warned that if officials made no attempt to clarify issues that confused the public, speculation would intensify. This is especially true for a nation where social media is penetrative and powerful.

The sense of urgency attached to the problem is a step forward. But it also speaks volumes of the prevailing mentality across Chinese officialdom. Reinforced by bureaucracy and inertia, officials are often too happy to be cocooned inside their air-conditioned offices. The took issue with red tape in a front-page commentary on the weekend, blasting local authorities for not implementing central government orders. The mindset is said to be aggravated further by the anti-graft drive. Few officials would stick their necks out during sensitive times. It has been claimed that some even won't answer calls or vet documents as a result.