763: Laowhy86 | China Uprising | Out of the Loop

Xinjiang Fire

The tragic fire in Xinjiang, where residents were trapped due to strict COVID lockdowns, ignited widespread protests across China. Jordan Harbinger and Laowhy86 discuss how this incident, despite occurring in a region often marginalized, sparked solidarity among Han Chinese and others, leading to coordinated protests at over 79 universities 1. This unity was unexpected, given the usual repression of dissent by the Chinese government.

It was a rare coordinated effort I saw throughout 79-plus universities around China.

--- Laowhy86

The protests were not just about the fire but also a broader critique of the government's zero-COVID policy, highlighting a significant moment of public dissent not seen since Tiananmen Square 2.

   

Mass Arrests

The Chinese government's response to the protests has been severe, with mass arrests and suppression efforts underway. Laowhy86 describes a crackdown reminiscent of past authoritarian responses, where protestors are being detained and silenced to prevent further dissent 3. The regime's fear is that successful protests could embolden citizens to demand more rights, challenging the CCP's authority.

A massive, huge crackdown, the real bloodbath is happening behind closed doors.

--- Laowhy86

This situation illustrates the "dictator trap," where leaders are insulated from the truth by layers of bureaucracy, leading to misinformed decisions and further unrest 4.