Thirty-eight-year-old Zhang Yunying has become China's first
spokeswoman at community level for Bajiao in Beijing's Shijingshan
district this November.
Before her appointment, Zhang underwent 7 months of training on
the job's role and responsibilities at the Communication University
of China to learn 'a whole new skill set' as Zhang put it.
The Chinese government created the spokesperson positions in
1983, initially at State Council, ministry and provincial level and
the concept was then extended down to local level.
Zhang's appointment has generated a storm of media interest,
with press and TV journalists present at local meetings and footage
on both mainland and Hong Kong TV.
Looking smart and professional on the rostrum in her business
suit, Zhang is a far cry from the stern, tight-lipped official
figures of old. Local residents who know her well describe her as
"a patient and easy-going person".
"I spend half my time out of the office with local people,"
Zhang said. Speaking to an audience of 50-odd local residents and a
bevy of reporters, she said, "In my opinion, a grassroots
spokesperson is not a political tactician. The most important
requirement for the job is a genuine concern for people."
In the 40-minute conference, local residents unleashed a barrage
of questions, ranging from charity activities to winter heating
problems to flowerbed irrigation.
"I'm here to say what the government is doing, and to listen to
people's concerns," said Zhang.
"These meetings need to be held regularly," said one resident.
74-year-old Ma Xilai read a poem he had written to praise community
volunteers who helped him carry groceries.
"There are no taboos in this meeting, and we welcome questions
from the people and the press," said Liu Jianguo, head of the
Bajiao local committee who helped Zhang answer questions.
"Previously, government officials only reported to their
superiors. The new spokesperson is a direct link between government
and us. Communication is going to be much better," said 71-year-old
Zhao Jing, a retired pilot.
"Grassroots spokespersons are going to improve government and
increase transparency," said Xu Qinyuan, a communication professor
from the Communication University of China.
(Xinhua News Agency November 29, 2006)
