Fifty-five years ago, a 15-year-old Xi Jinping embarked on a transformative journey to Liangjiahe Village in northwest China's Shaanxi Province. As an \"educated youth,\" he spent seven years living and working alongside farmers in the countryside.
These formative years instilled in Xi a steadfast belief in the importance of practical service to the people. Reflecting on his time in Liangjiahe, Xi emphasized that engaging directly with the community fostered his commitment to addressing real-world challenges.
In November 2012, after being elected general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Xi pledged his unwavering dedication to serving the people. He stated, \"The people's wish for a happy life is our mission.\" This commitment has been a cornerstone of his leadership style.
From his early days as a rural Party branch secretary to his current roles as the general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Chinese premier, and chairman of the Central Military Commission, Xi Jinping has consistently prioritized the welfare of the country and its citizens.
Man of the People
As a teenager arriving in Liangjiahe, Xi was initially unsure of his path. However, by the time he left at 22, he was resolutely determined to serve the people. His next assignment took him to Zhengding, a struggling county in Hebei Province. There, Xi observed firsthand the hardships faced by local farmers, particularly the burden of a high grain procurement quota.
Xi's proactive approach led him to write to the CPC Central Committee, highlighting how the excessive quota of 38 million kilograms was causing widespread hunger. His initiative prompted an investigation, resulting in the reduction of the quota to 24 million kilograms. This change significantly alleviated the plight of the local population.
Cheng Baohuai, then secretary of Zhengding County CPC Committee, recalled the positive impact of Xi's efforts: \"People appreciated Xi's work, saying they finally had enough food.\" Xi's actions demonstrated his deep-rooted commitment to understanding and addressing the challenges faced by ordinary people.
Through his hands-on approach and dedication to service, Xi Jinping has established himself as a leader who is genuinely committed to the well-being of the people. His journey from a rural village to the highest levels of leadership underscores his enduring mission to improve the lives of millions.
Reference(s):
'For the good of my people': Xi Jinping's devotion to service
cgtn.com
