Real function of the CPPCC

The three bills submitted by an industrialist member of the national committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) triggered heated debate among netizens and media critics across the country.

My impression of the comments was that many people were angered by Zhang Yin "speaking for the rich" while others supported the billionaire entrepreneur who is engaged in the paper-making business. She was applauded for her bravery in deviating from the conventional image of a CPPCC member.

The proponents argued: "Why can't Zhang speak on behalf of her stratum?" They said the CPPCC is where representatives from different social classes voice their opinions that concern them and the groups they represent. They were particularly excited over Zhang speaking about her group's interests, claiming it marked "great progress" in China's political democracy.