An internal document from May 20 shows the party is trying to control every word and thought of its citizens.
The document listed 20 restrictions for Communist Party members and demands that they carefully control their words and actions—even outside of working hours.
Any violation of the rules will result in severe punishment.
The document forbids party members from visiting illegal or reactionary websites, according to China, what includes Twitter and Youtube.
All English mainstream media also aren’t accessible.
Another rule bans tuning into overseas reactionary radio and TV programs.
Only by using special software can Chinese netizens bypass the regime’s firewall, and catch a glimpse into the outside world.
The rules also impose regulations on private life. Party members aren’t allowed to join local clubs, alumni groups, classmates’ associations, or veteran’ associations, that are not run by the party.
Going even further, the part bans practicing or believing in religions as well.
The two kinds of churches in China are the ones organized and recognized by the Party—even its bishops are appointed by the Party, not by the Pope. The other one is the underground church, which doesn’t follow the party and is strongly suppressed by the regime.
Uyghur Muslims, Buddhists, and practitioners of spiritual meditation discipline Falun Gong are severely persecuted in China.
The content of China’s constitution is contrary to what is found in the internal document.
Article 35 claims Chinese citizens enjoy the freedom of speech, of the press, of assembly, of association, of procession, and of demonstration.
Article 36 says Chinese people have freedom of religion. It adds that no state organ, social organization, or individual is allowed to compel citizens to control others’ choices of faith.
