Xi Jinping's new letter underlines his authoritarian absolutism

Xi Jinping on Thursday published an open letter to the Chinese people. While repetitive, the letter illuminates Xi’s overriding fear that the Chinese people will one day rise up and demand political freedom.

The title is, “The leadership of the Communist Party of China is the most essential feature of socialism with Chinese characteristics.” Originally published in the party’s preeminent political journal, Qiushi, the letter was circulated in all major media outlets. This reflects Xi’s desire that his words be disseminated as widely as possible.