James Fallows explains why removing China’s term limits is a step backward.
The CCP's plan to lift term limits on the presidency is a mistake that goes counter to all the basic principles of democracy. This is nothing more than idol worship, the greatest enemy of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Jose Rizal, revered as the 'Father of the Philippines', once counseled: 'Today's slaves often become tomorrow's tyrants; believe in the rule of law, not in the rule of man.' The China Constitution needs reform, but the change should be to install a modified semi-presidential system with the president limited to a single 5-year term. See the Charter for Permanent Peace and Development for details. §1.9 §1.10 §5.1 §6.1 §6.10