The political supporters of fallen senior leader Bo Xilai have joined together and have formed a political party. This is a direct challenge to the ruling Communist Party's de facto ban on the formation of political parties or groups. The main inspiration for the party is Xilai, who still remains incarcerated on charges of corruption.
The party is named the Zhi Xian Party or 'the constitution is the supreme authority' party. It was formed last November 6, a day before the opening of a key group of top Communist Party leaders who had met to discuss much needed reforms for the country, according to anonymous sources.
The party has named the jailed senior politician as its 'chairman for life'. One of the party's founders is Wang Zheng, an associate professor of the Beijing Institute of Economics and Management for international trade, confirmed the formation with Reuters through a telephone interview.
According to Wang, "This is not illegal under Chinese law. It is legal and reasonable." When asked about having any worry about being arrested, "We are not afraid. I don't think we will be arrested."
A second source, who sought anonymity for security purposes, confirmed the formation of the party. Reuters sought out the Communist Party's propaganda department to seek a comment but said calls were left unanswered.
Throughout its history of power in China, the Communist Party has not allowed any opposition parties to be formed since the 1949 revolution. Others have tried to previously form groups but were deemed as radicals and enemies of the state. this though would be the first time a political party coalesced around a fallen political leader.
The party had sent a letter to Bo in his prison address but there was no indication if Bo would agree to become their 'chairman for life'. Bo Xilai was convicted and sentenced to life in prison on bribery and corruption charges stemming from pocketing USD3.5 million in bribes through receipt of valuable gifts to his family during his tenure.
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