Promote cadres to better assume their responsibilities (ideological vertical and horizontal)
The recent Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee has brought to the forefront an important issue: officials must confront issues like recklessness, inaction, a lack of courage, and ineffective performance. With political direction set, the role of officials is crucial for implementing these directives. As we embark on this new path, the focus must be on nurturing a cadre of officials who are loyal, clean, responsible, and highly professional. Addressing misconduct and inactivity among officials is a central part of this initiative to ensure they embrace their responsibilities effectively.
The impacts of misconduct within the ranks can be severe for both the Party and the nation. Some officials succumb to a mindset driven by “performance anxiety,” seeking superficial praise instead of addressing real needs. This often results in initiatives that prioritize appearance over substance, ultimately thwarting progress and tarnishing the Party and government’s image. The root of this issue often lies in inadequate Party values and misguided perceptions of success. To address these challenges, we need to establish a clear “performance compass” and ensure officials are well-versed in the principles of Xi Jinping’s Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. It’s vital that they prioritize Party principles and the interests of the people, diligently fulfilling their roles to benefit their communities. Performance evaluations should be based on sound scientific methods, integrating both qualitative and quantitative metrics that acknowledge their contributions from the organization and the public, and focus on immediate and long-term impacts.
Action is at the core of effective governance. When officials face obstacles, their willingness to act speaks volumes about their commitment to their roles. Inaction leads to stagnation. To combat this, we must reinforce political guidance and encourage officials to thoroughly grasp the Party’s innovative theories. They should draw motivation from the Party’s rich history, staying mindful of their responsibilities and igniting their passion for reform and accountability. Personnel policies will significantly influence the quality of this cadre; therefore, we must adopt transparent selection processes that prioritize real achievements and practical abilities. Those who demonstrate determination, innovation, and notable accomplishments should be recognized and advanced, while there must be clear frameworks for promoting and demoting officials, addressing ineffective behavior and fostering a culture where talent is acknowledged and underperformance is rectified.
Often, inactivity among officials stems from a lack of courage. It’s essential to instill bravery—not just through words but by ensuring that diligent efforts are rewarded, and responsible individuals feel secure in their roles. We need to maintain a balanced approach when it comes to correcting mistakes, evaluating officials fairly while pushing for necessary reforms. Stricter oversight must be coupled with support for those willing to innovate, cultivating an environment where trailblazers receive backing, and those encountering challenges have the help they need to overcome them. The greater the responsibility, the more support we must provide to those shouldering the load. By fostering a politically, professionally, and personally supportive atmosphere, we can enhance officials’ sense of belonging and fulfillment, paving the way for collective progress and reform.
Officials must not only possess the courage to act but also the competence to do so effectively. As we delve deeper into reform challenges, we need officials with strong resolve and capabilities. Professional training must align with public expectations, developmental needs, and responsibilities, placing emphasis on high-quality growth, community service, and risk management. This should include tiered specialized training to address knowledge gaps and bolster competencies. Experience is a product of facing challenges, which is why officials should be strategically deployed to critical areas of reform and development, transforming experiences into valuable skills. With a passionate thirst for knowledge, a problem-solving attitude, and a drive for excellence, officials can emerge as effective champions of reform, development, and public welfare.
