Reflections from Pastor John Cao, a recently released Chinese Christian prisoner of conscience, shed light on the bureaucratic challenges faced by Chinese citizens in obtaining essential documents. Pastor John Cao's firsthand account, published by ChinaAid, reveals the Kafkaesque hurdles encountered in basic administrative processes in China.
Cao recounts an incident where he was asked to prove his identity despite being a native of Changsha, China, stating, "I was asked to prove that I was from Changsha." This requirement, seemingly unnecessary for a lifelong resident, reflects the absurdity of the system.
Critiquing the convoluted procedures, Pastor John Cao compares the Chinese government's approach unfavorably to that of the U.S., noting, "The U.S. government may create difficulties for foreign immigrants, but our government, which claims to serve the people, is actually creating difficulties for its own citizens."
He further criticizes the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office, stating, "The Overseas Chinese Affairs Office is completely dragging down the Chinese government," highlighting the barriers placed on overseas Chinese citizens seeking to return and contribute to their homeland.
Cao's personal experiences and those of others he knows illustrate the challenges faced by returning Chinese citizens, with bureaucratic red tape preventing individuals from obtaining essential documents. He emphasizes the impact of these hurdles on individuals' livelihoods, stating, "Without an ID card, I can’t find a job. Without a job, I have no income. Without income, I’ll starve. Without an ID card, I can’t see a doctor."
Despite his love for his country, Pastor John Cao finds himself in a predicament where he is unable to access basic rights due to administrative obstacles. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and frustrations within the Chinese bureaucratic system.
