Xi warns against ‘pillow talk’, ‘pollution’ in politics

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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday called for a clean political ecology during a panel discussion with deputies to the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) from Chongqing Municipality at the annual session of the NPC in Beijing.

"The political ecology, like nature, can be easily polluted and hard to recover once problems arise," said Xi, stressing that a clean political ecology is a necessity to deepen the Party's self-governance and an important guarantee to ensure the realization of reform and development goals.

Xi urged the deputies to adhere to the rule of law and maintain awe to the Constitution.

"You should set an example in obeying the law, exercise power and perform duties in strict accordance with statutory authority, rules, and procedures," noted the president.

Xi highlighted that leaders at all levels should restrict their conduct and behaviors, and should not let “pillow talk” within families help to foster graft.

"All Party members and cadres must abstain from greed and effectively use the power given by the people for the benefit of the people."

"Prevent pillow talk from becoming a fuse for corruption, prevent your children from raising your banners to illegally seek profit, prevent those around you from dragging you down,” elaborated the president.

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with deputies to the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) from Chongqing Municipality in Beijing, March 10, 2018. /Xinhua Photo

He also stressed the importance of improving governing at the grassroots level.

"The tower of socialism with Chinese characteristics needs beams and columns to support it. The Communist Party of China (CPC) is the framework running through it and the CPC Central Committee is the pillar."

"The foundation of the building is of vital importance. Without a sound foundation, the whole building will shake. For grassroots governmental organs, the CPC branches at various levels serve as the backbone. We must consolidate the foundations. We need hundreds of thousands of excellent grassroots officials who can carry out their work pragmatically," said Xi.

The session, which opened on Monday morning, is set to conclude on March 20.‍