In 2021, during a visit to a place where his father once worked, Chinese President Xi Jinping softly recited a line prominently displayed in the exhibition hall: “Sit upright at the side of the people.” These words were spoken and embodied by his father, Xi Zhongxun, a revered leader of the Communist Party of China (CPC).
Describing his father as someone who devoted himself wholeheartedly to the Chinese people, Xi Jinping, who is also the general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, has pledged to continue the mission of serving the people.
Putting People First
Xi Jinping’s people-first approach to governance was deeply influenced by his father. When Xi Zhongxun worked at the prefectural Party committee of Suide in north China’s Shaanxi Province, locals would often say, “Go find Zhongxun.” This simple phrase reflected the trust and support he earned by being approachable and attentive to the needs of the people.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Xi Jinping has kept the word “people” at the forefront throughout his political career. From his early days in Liangjiahe to positions in Zhengding, Fujian, Zhejiang, and Shanghai before moving to Beijing, he has consistently engaged with communities. Whether sitting on traditional kang beds or humble wooden stools, he listened intently, shared meals, and showed genuine concern for people’s lives.
“Of all the tasks before us, ensuring a happy life for our people is the most important,” Xi reiterated in his 2021 New Year message.
Prioritizing Grassroots Engagement
The emphasis on investigation and research as foundations for decision-making is another value Xi Jinping inherited from his father. In 1978, Xi Zhongxun took up a principal role in south China’s Guangdong Province and played a pivotal part in establishing the country’s first special economic zones, including Shenzhen.
At that time, Guangdong’s growth had lagged behind the national average for 14 consecutive years. Determined to boost development and improve livelihoods, Xi Zhongxun visited 23 counties in a single summer to understand grassroots conditions. His in-depth research led him to advocate for greater autonomy for Guangdong and propose that the province lead in reform and opening up.
Xi Jinping has mirrored this commitment to grassroots engagement. Since November 2012, he has conducted over 100 inspections at the grassroots level. He has explained policies in courtyards and pavilions, listened to reports on boats and trains, inquired about livelihoods in fields, and discussed development plans on factory floors.
Through thorough investigation and research, the pressing concerns of the people have become focal points in national policies, driving China’s continuous reform efforts.
“No matter what your job title is, serve the people diligently, consider their interests wholeheartedly, maintain close ties with them, and always stay approachable,” Xi Zhongxun once advised his son.
Honoring his father’s words, Xi Jinping has lived up to his own pledge: “I will fully commit to the people and never fail them.”
