Communist Party weighs action against outspoken Chinese tycoon Ren Zhiqiang
A local Beijing Communist Party committee is considering action against outspoken tycoon Ren Zhiqiang, warning other party members to toe the disciplinary line.
The decision came after Ren, a retired property developer and a long-time “outstanding party member”, directly questioned President Xi Jinping’s demand that state media pledge “absolute loyalty” to the party.
The comments were made on Ren’s microblogging accounts, which were closed down on the weekend.
The party committee of Beijing’s Xicheng district said on its microblog on Monday night that Ren would be “dealt with seriously” for his blatantly critical postings on social media.
“As a Communist Party member, Ren has constantly published illegal information and wrong remarks that generated vile influence, seriously damaging the party’s image,” it said.
“As a party member, any remark that does not accord with the party’s lines, principles and policies, whether it’s on the internet or other media platforms, is not allowed under party discipline.”