Why did Hu Xijin call for Covid expert candour on Weibo?

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Hu Xijin Called for Covid Experts to Speak Out Amidst China's Strict Policies and Public Dissatisfaction

Hu Xijin, a prominent Chinese commentator and former editor-in-chief of the Global Times, called for epidemic experts to speak out and for China to conduct comprehensive, transparent research on its Covid-19 policies due to the ongoing strict measures and potential public discontent. His appeal, made on Weibo, highlighted the need to clarify the advantages and disadvantages of China's approach for both ordinary citizens and the nation as a whole, particularly as many other countries have begun to relax their restrictions.
Calls for Transparency in Policy Evaluation

Hu's central argument revolved around the necessity of objective and open evaluation of China's Covid-19 strategies. He specifically urged that "Experts must speak out, and the country should organise comprehensive studies and make them transparent to the public." This call aimed to foster a clearer understanding of the practical impacts of policies such as lockdowns and frequent PCR testing, which have been implemented to contain the Omicron variant. The request for transparency underscores a desire for data-driven discussions that weigh the benefits against the significant societal and individual costs.
Context of Strict Covid-19 Measures

The timing of Hu's statement is significant given China's continued adherence to stringent Covid-19 policies, including widespread lockdowns and mandatory testing, throughout 2022. This approach contrasts sharply with the global trend of many nations easing restrictions and adopting a strategy of coexisting with the virus. While China has maintained a relatively low death toll, estimated at around 5,226, the persistent imposition of severe measures has led to considerable inconvenience and frustration among the populace, as evidenced by some responses to Hu's post.
Public Sentiment and Internet Censorship

Hu's public call for candour on Weibo, a platform known for its tight policing of online discourse, suggests an awareness of underlying public sentiment. The significant engagement his post received, including thousands of likes, indicates that his message resonated with many netizens. In a political climate where leaders have previously warned against any discourse that questions or undermines official Covid-19 policies, Hu's willingness to advocate for open discussion, even with the potential for repercussions, points to a perceived need to address public concerns and foster greater trust between the state and its citizens.

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Why did Hu Xijin call for Covid expert candour on Weibo?

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