Li Chengpeng
Li Chengpeng | |
|---|---|
| Born | September 22, 1968 Hami, Xinjiang, China |
| Occupation(s) | Author, social commentator, journalist |
| Known for | Investigative journalism on Chinese football corruption; independent political candidacy in Chengdu |
Li Chengpeng () (born September 22, 1968) is a well-known Chinese author and social commentator. Renowned for his investigative journalism and insightful societal analysis, Li's Sina Weibo account amassed close to six million followers before it was taken down. In 2011, he gained global attention by announcing an independent bid for political office in his native Chengdu, Sichuan—a notable act within a political landscape largely controlled by the Chinese Communist Party.
Career
Often referred to as "Li Da Yan" ("big-eyed Li"), he launched his career as a journalist uncovering corruption within China's professional football scene. He co-wrote Chinese Soccer: The Inside Story, which exposed extensive match-fixing schemes involving athletes, officials, and gambling rings. His investigative work subjected him and his family to ongoing intimidation.
Li's prominence increased following the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, during which he participated in relief operations and recorded personal accounts from survivors in the affected regions. In 2011, he authored the novel Li Kele Protests Demolitions, offering a critical perspective on forced evictions in China.
That same year, Li announced his independent candidacy for the People's Congress representing Chengdu's Wuhou district. While local elections constitutionally allow any citizen over 18 to run, candidates are generally selected by the Communist Party, making independent campaigns potentially hazardous. His bid was supported by influential cultural figures such as blogger Han Han, filmmaker Feng Xiaogang, and intellectuals Yu Jianrong and He Weifang.
See also
External links
- "Watermelon vendor died pursuing the Chinese dream", translated essay by Li Chengpeng