China's national legislature adopts landmark constitutional amendment

A deputy to the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) casts her ballot on a draft amendment to the country's Constitution at the third plenary meeting of the first session of the 13th NPC in Beijing, capital of China, March 11, 2018. [Photo: Xinhua/Rao Aimin]

The National People's Congress, China's national legislature, has adopted a set of amendments to the country's Constitution.

The move, among other measures, has enshrined Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era into the Constitution.

CRI's Yu Yang has the story.

The amendment, adopted at the first session of the 13th NPC with an overwhelming majority, wrote Xi Jinping's thought into the Constitution's preamble, along with other guiding theories including Marxism-Leninism, Mao Zedong Thought, Deng Xiaoping Theory, and the Theory of Three Represents.

Scientific Outlook on Development has also been incorporated into the Constitution as a guiding theory.

Shen Chunyao, chairman of the Legislative Affairs Commission of the 12th NPC Standing Committee, says the inclusion of Xi Jinping's thought into the country's fundamental law reflects the common aspiration of the entire Communist Party of China and all Chinese people of various ethnic groups.

"First, it has reflected the fundamental nature of the CPC leadership. Second, it has reflected the comprehensive nature of the CPC leadership. And third, it has reflected the contemporary nature of the CPC leadership," said Shen.

Key concepts, policies and strategies were added into the Constitution.

Included are a vision of innovative, coordinated, green and open development for all; the five-sphere integrated plan for coordinated economic, political, cultural, social and ecological advancement; the goal of a "great modern socialist country"; and an oath of allegiance to the Constitution.

A revision to a clause concerning the Chinese President and Vice President's terms of office was also incorporated.

Shen Chunyao says it is a key measure to improve the state leadership system.

"This kind of leadership system is not only necessary but also appropriate for us as a big party and a big country. It is of historic significance for ensuring prosperity and lasting security of both the Party and the country," said Shen.

Supervisory commissions have been listed as state organs in the Constitution.

This is the first amendment to the country's fundamental law in 14 years.

China enacted its first Constitution in 1954.

The current Constitution was adopted in 1982 and subsequently amended in 1988, 1993, 1999 and 2004.