Chinese Whispers Corruption, power and the truth about my wife’s disappearance – with Desmond Shum
Oct 14, 2024
Desmond Shum, author of the memoir Red Roulette and commentator on Chinese politics, delves into his harrowing experience as a successful businessman in China before his wife Whitney Duan's mysterious disappearance in 2017. He shares insights on the intricate power struggles within the Chinese Communist Party, the chilling effects of government corruption, and the brutal reality of Xi Jinping's political landscape. Shum also critiques the accuracy of China's economic growth reports and discusses the increasing risks faced by those who dare to speak out against the regime.
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Intimate Ties to Wen Family
- Desmond Shum and Whitney Duan had close, personal relationships with the Wen Jiabao family, even being considered like family members.
- Whitney was encouraged to publicly take responsibility during the New York Times exposé, which ultimately caused them great trouble.
Whitney’s Disappearance and Return
- Whitney Duan was disappeared by the Chinese state in 2017 for four years without charges or explanation.
- She reappeared just before Desmond’s memoir was published and is now free within China but cannot leave.
Exposé as Political Weapon
- The New York Times exposé was orchestrated by political rivals within the CCP linked to Bo Xilai's faction.
- Such leaks are tools in power struggles, not independent journalistic discoveries.