Why is the Communist Party warning cadres about their performance?

South China Morning Post
by Alcott Wei
February 26, 2026
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Why is the Communist Party warning cadres about their performance?
The Communist Party of China has issued warnings to its cadres regarding governance and performance appraisals as the country approaches leadership changes and the start of its next five-year plan. A campaign targeting officials from county level upwards is underway until July, emphasizing the need to align duties with the party's "correct" line and ensure accurate assessments of subordinates. This internal focus reflects the party's commitment to maintaining discipline and unity ahead of significant political transitions. The initiative highlights concerns over deviations in governance practices and evaluation processes. State news agency Xinhua reported that officials are being closely monitored to ensure their actions align with party directives. This campaign underscores the Communist Party's prioritization of organizational integrity, particularly as it prepares for leadership shifts and the implementation of new national strategies under the next five-year plan. The timing of this effort is crucial, as China gears up for key political events, including leadership transitions at various levels. The emphasis on correcting deviations suggests a broader push to maintain control and coherence within the party structure. By focusing on performance appraisals, the Communist Party aims to ensure that its cadres are both effective and loyal, which is essential for maintaining stability and achieving long-term goals. This internal campaign not only reflects the party's self-regulatory mechanisms but also signals its determination to uphold its dominant position in Chinese politics. For readers interested in global affairs, this highlights China's ongoing efforts to consolidate power and maintain political stability amidst significant changes. Understanding these internal dynamics is key to grasping the broader implications for China's future policies and its role on the world stage. In essence, the Communist Party's focus on governance and performance appraisals underscores its strategic priorities as it navigates a critical period of transition. The campaign not only addresses immediate concerns about leadership effectiveness but also sets the tone for how the party will approach governance in the coming years. This internal emphasis has far-reaching consequences for China's political landscape and its
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/26/2026