Dear Chris,

I would not be happy if the CCP would stick to China. I prefer it be replaced. I don't understand that a dynasty must be heredity. I understand that a dynasty is one entity rule with power transferred within that entity and no recognised opposition. I believe that in a traditional Chinese dynasty the ruler is free to designate a successor who may not be a relative.

Hi David,

A two part question, how should it be replaced, and by whom should it be replaced?

Its my opinion and without evidence, if free and democratic elections were held in China, if that was even remotely possible, I believe the CCP would be returned with an overwhelming majority. The devil you know is better that the devil you don't.

Yes Paul, given that you have to be a member of CCP to get anywhere in the first place, there would be a lot of people doing their utmost to conince the masses to vote CCP.

But give it 12 months with parties free to report the truth, and the CCP would not stand a chance

Dear Paul,

You may be right that with a free vote the CCP might be returned to power. However, if they were absolutely sure of that they could have a free vote with the only options yes or no. If no is a majority they might relinquish power. It might be instructive to consider the collapse of the USSR.

https://history.state.gov/milestones/1989-1992/collapse-soviet-union

I certainly didn't anticipate a USSR collapse, but the citizens had had enough. Maybe Chinese citizens feel the same way.

how should it be replaced, and by whom should it be replaced?
Paul1405,
Let it implode instead of interfere with it & prolong it !

Hi David,

China is a much different case to the Soviet Union, to what degree is there mass discontent with the regime? Where is the strong political opposition? Is there a growing disaffected middle class? Is there economic instability? Unless these questions are answered in the
affirmative regime change is very unlikely.

With your opening post I agree, but is the objective peace, or having Australia gain kudos as a noble, but failed, champion for peace. I can only see Australia as one small cog in a giant wheel working for peace and stability in our region. The position of Australia at the moment is we are very much aligned with the US, and take a negative attitude with a "China bad, US good" stance, which is hardly likely to gain trust from the Chinese.

Just for a moment can you see that the Chinese might have concerns which they see as a threat to their security?