With a strong legal education background, Li stressed several times in his two-hour media meeting the importance of the rule of law and the determination to shake up vested interests. He also made "ensuring social fairness" one of the three top tasks of the new government, apart from maintaining economic growth and improving people's livelihoods.

In answer to my question about laojiao — the controversial re-education-through-labor system — Li promised that the practice, which allows police to confine people for up to four years without an open trial, will be reformed within this year.

These are definitely no easy tasks, and Premier Li said some tasks, such as shaking up vested interests, might be more difficult than "touching the soul".

But I have confidence. It's based on the historic demand of our times and repeated assertions from the new leaders since November about upholding of the country's Constitution.

More important, the confidence is from the people. The growing number of negative votes from the NPC deputies on proposed bills at the annual legislative session is a strong sign for China's future development.

 

Reporter's Log

Not merely for show, but respect

Straight-shooting deputies tell it like it is in Tibet

Two sessions: a test and a feast for reporters

What a big difference 20 years makes

Grassroots level is often greener