Beijing witnesses rare protest against Chinese President Xi Jinping days before Communist Party congress

Days before all important Communist Party session, Chinese President Xi Jinping and the country's Covid restrictions were the targets of a rare rally in Beijing. Two protest flags were also seen on a bridge in the city's northwest. It seems that the authorities immediately dispersed the rally. Resentment in the capital city has been rising in the lead-up to the party congress, according to reports.



Many people were reportedly annoyed about the strict security measures and the restrictions that Covid has put in place, and they're venting their frustrations online.


Authorities have closed the city's entrances, blocked the passage of incoming cargo and returned residents. Some were quarantined or otherwise restricted in their movements.

Images and footage from the event show two giant banners draped over a bridge in the Haidian area of Beijing.

Video footage from the scene showed massive plumes of smoke rising from the bridge, and a man could be heard yelling over a megaphone.

When a BBC crew arrived at the scene later, there was no evidence of the incident, but the police presence was evident.



The 20th Party Congress, which will last for a week and kick off in the capital on Sunday, will bring together some 2,300 high-ranking officials and party delegates.

Predictions of a third term in office for China's leader Xi Jinping have shattered decades of tradition and solidified his grip on power.

Millions of inhabitants are subjected to testing and inspections every three days at building entrances, and mask-wearing laws are strictly enforced.

In addition to discouraging citizens from leaving, authorities have limited newcomers to the city.

FAQs:

1. In China, how many political parties are permitted?
   The Chinese Communist Party is in charge of China, a one-party state.
2. How many protest flags were seen?
   Two.