Timing and steps of China's political reforms important

Comments on Justin Li “Political reform in China: Wen will it happen and Hu will lead it?” 19/09/2010, http://www.eastasiaforum.org/2010/09/19/political-reform-in-china-wen-would-it-happen-and-hu-will-lead-it/
Although political reforms in China will be inevitable and will occur sooner or later, timing will be of essence and will determine the costs of the reforms and its progress trajectory.

Common sense means that it would be easier to embark on major political reforms when a new group of leaders are in place and have plenty of time to design and implement reforms and see them through.

Having said that, I think there are a number of areas where political reforms can be realistically expected.

For example, China could start political reforms from two fronts. The first is to increase press freedom, so reporters and journalists can freely report what is happening in the country’s political, economic, social and cultural lives. This will force the government to be more accountable and responsive to people’s needs, and reduce corruptions.

The second is to start direct election of lower levels of government. This will allow people to be used to direct election and to respect the simple fact of an election outcome whether it is in line with a person’s expectation or will. To start with lower levels of government will allow the political stability of the nation and will accumulate valuable experience and lessons for political reforms at higher levels of government.

Of course, it goes without saying that China will need to strengthen its law and order, and allow judicial system independence and enforce and operate under the law.