The outbreak has undermined the myth that the Chinese political elites win assignments and promotion purely on merit. Developing countries have sent thousands of their government officials to China to learn its model of governance, a political system that offers security and growth in return for submission to authoritarian rule. Few people dare to question Mr. Xi openly, for fear of provoking censors or the police. He also oversaw the creation of China’s high-speed rail system, which vastly improved life in the country. The outbreak and lack of disclosure suggest that the political cadres are winning.

Source: New York Times February 04, 2020 13:41 UTC