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Japan Times
10-07-2025
- Politics
- Japan Times
Online dissent in China doesn't mean Xi is on his way out
Lately, a wave of speculation has emerged in Western media asking whether Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader Xi Jinping is losing his grip. Faced with rising youth unemployment, elite disaffection and a deteriorating administrative apparatus, it's tempting to believe the Chinese leader is on the way out. But this narrative, while seductive, fundamentally misreads the evolving architecture of digital authoritarianism in China. What looks like volatility is often a carefully staged illusion. For those unfamiliar with China's digital ecology, a surge in online dissent might be taken as a sign of insecurity. But through the lens of internetwork society, this is precisely how power is maintained. Rather than crumbling, Xi Jinping's regime has grown more sophisticated — tightening its control through new instruments of emotional manipulation and algorithmic governance. The internet is not a battlefield between free voices and censors, but a state-engineered matrix of intersubjectivity — a shared sense of what can be thought, felt and done. The CCP doesn't just control what is seen; it shapes how people feel about what they see and how they believe others feel, too. Kevin J. O'Brien's 1996 theory of 'rightful resistance' still resonates — but the CCP has built pathways to reroute it. The result is a feedback loop: Digital advocacy exists not to contest power, but to strengthen the state's claim to moral authority. By allowing selective grievances to surface, the party presents itself as receptive. But the moment grievances become systemic or principle-based, they are erased. A striking example came on June 24 with the viral case of the 'Guangxi Girl.' A video posted on Douyin (Chinese TikTok) and widely reshared, showed a young woman from Guangxi province being abruptly seized and taken away in an ambulance. Her cries — 'I have hepatitis B!' — triggered a wave of online speculation that she was being forcibly hospitalized or worse. The comments discuss poverty, health and public distrust — all sensitive topics for the CCP. In Xi's China, online discussion of cases like Guangxi Girl's is allowed — until the focus shifts from interest to rights. The existence of such online content shows not the fragility of Xi's rule, but its sophistication. The debate was allowed, even as official media labeled the story 'fake news' and proclaimed that the original poster of the video had been punished. Viral protest in China is not a sign of regime collapse; it is part of a calculated cycle. Each act of censorship teaches not just what not to say, but what it means to remain safe, loyal and visible in the CCP's omnipresent gaze. We should resist projecting Western models of political turnover onto China's Leninist party-state. Xi hasn't just solidified his role; he has transformed the CCP's internal logic. Through ideological campaigns and loyalty purges, he's reshaped the CCP into a machine of 'centralized unity' — capable of absorbing dissent by converting it into reinforcement of the very power structure it critiques. This is not the brittle dictatorship of the past, but a resilient digital Leviathan, adaptable and emotionally literate. It's part of a sophisticated choreography that allows temporary outbursts of grievance, only to reassert party control through a spectacle of rescue or reprimand. The CCP no longer simply silences dissent; it manages, choreographs and deploys performance, visibility and emotional modulation to reinforce its own legitimacy. What really unfolds is an internetwork society, a digitally mediated governance regime in which state and society are deliberately interwoven. Citizens are invited to participate, but only within scripts set by the party. China's digital infrastructure has been weaponized not just to censor, but to shape how people feel about what they see. Through algorithmic modulation, emotional scripting and selective visibility, the party governs not only speech but intersubjectivity itself. The digital sphere in China scripts, simulates, and absorbs dissent, and its advocacy becomes a feedback loop, reinforcing the party's paternalistic frame rather than contesting its power. Xi's consolidation of power extends far beyond his 2018 abolition of presidential term limits. His ongoing anti-corruption campaign neutralizes rivals while presenting the party as self-correcting. His shift from 'zero-COVID' to zero dissent integrated public health infrastructure into ideological control. Every international flash point — from Taiwan to the South China Sea — becomes a catalyst for nationalism and a reaffirmation of Xi's authority. This is why it is misleading to view viral protests as proof of regime weakness. The 'Guanxi Girl' case and others like it do not signify cracks in the system. They show how deeply the CCP has embedded itself in the emotional logic of digital life. A key strategy in this matrix is the CCP's calculated distinction between public interest advocacy and public rights advocacy. My research examines how the CCP strategically differentiates between interest-based advocacy under party guidance and rights-based advocacy. The former — in the form of local corruption exposes, environmental complaints or rural poverty stories — is permitted, even encouraged, when it reinforces the CCP's role as paternal protector. Rights-based advocacy is different. It is inherited as the traditional practice of 'remonstrance for Dao,' which empowers the public to call for justice, constitutionalism or structural reform. Citizens are allowed to speak, but emotional expression is only permitted when it reinforces the CCP's paternal image. Structural critique is punished. This distinction defines the CCP's ideological survival strategy, which is central to how the CCP controls meaning in a digitally mediated society. By allowing selective public grievances to surface, the regime co-opts discontent. But by cracking down on those who invoke rights or systemic change, it prevents the emergence of an alternative intersubjective consensus. The goal is not total censorship, but emotional channeling: to let the people feel angry, as long as they feel that the state feels their anger too. The CCP steers public interest-based advocacy under guidance that legitimizes the party's role as both the cause of grievances and their remedy. Central to this process is Xi's concept of a 'public opinion struggle,' which revives and intensifies Jiang Zemin-era media control, embedding the CCP's power as the programmer and switcher of public discourse. The result is mass internalization of party ideology. Between 2008 and 2022, CCP membership swelled from 75.9 million to 96 million, according to the Council on Foreign Relations. Party identity has become embedded in social mobility, status and emotional allegiance. Xi's neologism-laden political doctrine isn't merely propaganda — it acts as code, programming discourse across platforms. Borrowing from Manuel Castells' network theory, Xi has become both the 'programmer' and 'switcher' of China's emotional and ideological infrastructure. Yes, China faces a legitimacy crisis. State capacity is declining, birth rates are falling and trust is eroding. But these crises are absorbed through dynamic repression — an intentional balance of visibility and vulnerability, proximity and purge, spotlight and suppression. The viral discussion of the 'Guangxi Girl' is not evidence of political fragility but rather an extension of the CCP's evolving digital governance strategy. These moments of protest are tolerated, choreographed and ultimately absorbed into the party's emotional and ideological feedback loop. The future of resistance lies in whether collective, political, structural rights-based advocacy can escape the scripted boundaries of interest-based appeals under CCP supervision. Until China's internetwork society is truly decolonized from state-directed norms of emotion and participation, viral dissent will remain a mirror that reflects party power — not a window to its downfall. China's digital public sphere is not disentangled from the party's ideological machinery and curatorial hand yet. So no, Xi Jinping isn't on his way out or about to fall. His power will not dissipate; the CCP's grip will not loosen, it will continue to adapt and metastasize. Xi is firmly embedded at the core of a system that has redefined how authoritarianism operates in the information age — through a blend of surveillance, sentiment management and strategic solidarity. He is the architect of a digital regime that doesn't just govern people; it governs how they feel about being governed. And as long as that emotional terrain of the internetwork society remains programmed and colonized by state-directed norms, the revolution will remain captured. Yujing Shentu is a writer and analyst with a background in policy analysis and economic strategy, focusing on digital politics, international political economy and U.S.-China strategic competition. © 2025,The Diplomat
Associated Press
11-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
The Integritus Group a Division of SEMM Holdings Launches XceptView: Video Intelligence Built for Independent Retail, Food & Beverage, and Convenience Store Operators
New York, NY June 11, 2025 --( )-- SEMM Holdings, a trusted leader in operational excellence, compliance, and profit protection, today announced the launch of XceptView, a powerful new solution tailored to the needs of independent retailers, hospitality businesses, and convenience store owners. This offering transforms existing video systems into strategic business tools—no new hardware or software required. XceptView empowers operators to identify risk, reduce shrink, and strengthen operations by turning passive video surveillance into meaningful, actionable insight. The Integritus Groups team of experts navigates the complex maze of video and transactional information, distilling it into crystal-clear intelligence that drives smarter decisions across the organization. 'Independent operators often feel like they're flying blind when it comes to shrink, operational inconsistency, or identifying total retail loss,' said Kevin O'Brien, EVP of Business Development at SEMM Holdings. 'It's about taking the systems and various mounds of data they already have and turning them into a true strategic advantage—without adding to their workload or their technology budget.' The Integritus Group Retail Risk Consulting: Insight Without the Overhead At the core of XceptView is The Integritus Group's Retail Risk Consulting, a hands-on, expert-led service designed to help operators pinpoint vulnerabilities and build customized loss prevention strategies. By leveraging existing video and transaction systems, The Integritus Group delivers targeted, data-backed recommendations to help safeguard profits and reduce risk—without requiring new tech investments or disrupting daily operations. Their expert-led video verification services uncover potential hidden loss and provide valuable behavior insights, enabling proactive and informed decision-making. Built for Independent Operators No New Technology Required – Works seamlessly with your current video infrastructure. Expert-Driven Results – Certified professionals in loss prevention, behavioral analysis, and POS review. Actionable Intelligence – Insights delivered clearly and efficiently to help you make fast, confident decisions. Flexible and Scalable – Ideal for independents, franchises, and multi-unit operators. Experience XceptView at NRF Protect The Integritus Group will showcase live demonstrations of XceptView during the NRF Protect Conference, June 23–25, within SEMM Holdings Booth #100. Attendees will experience firsthand how existing video systems can become a vital asset in protecting revenue and improving operations. About SEMM Holdings The SEMM Holdings Brands (The Integritus Group, Learn it Media and Pharma Compliance Group) empowers businesses through innovative compliance, safety, and profit protection solutions. With deep industry knowledge and a commitment to operational clarity, SEMM helps brands of all sizes operate with greater control and confidence. Media Contact: Kevin O'Brien EVP Business Development SEMM Holdings [email protected] [email protected] Contact Information: SEMMM Holdings Kevin O'Brien 781-727-2250 Contact via Email Read the full story here: The Integritus Group a Division of SEMM Holdings Launches XceptView: Video Intelligence Built for Independent Retail, Food & Beverage, and Convenience Store Operators Press Release Distributed by
Associated Press
07-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
SEMM Holdings and Sharpvue Announce Strategic Partnership to Transform Operational Excellence and Surveillance Innovation
New York, NY June 06, 2025 --( )-- Collaboration Combines Compliance Leadership with Advanced AI Surveillance to Elevate Safety, Profit Protection, and Real-Time Intelligence to Mitigate Risk. SEMM Holdings, a trusted leader in operational excellence through compliance, safety, and profit protection, today announced a strategic partnership with Sharpvue, a top innovator in mobile AI surveillance and commercial cloud video technology. This collaboration brings together deep domain expertise in asset protection, operational compliance and advanced surveillance technology to help organizations elevate safety, reduce risk, and increase operational transparency across industries. The strategic alliance will integrate SEMM Holdings' proven solutions for safety and compliance with Sharpvue's mobile AI surveillance platforms, creating a powerful new standard for real-time accountability and data-driven decision-making in high-risk and complex environments. 'This partnership with Sharpvue represents a major leap forward in how we support our clients,' said Kevin O'Brien, EVP of Business Development at SEMM Holdings. 'By integrating advanced surveillance technology with our compliance and safety solutions, we're creating smarter, safer, and more profitable operations. This is about enabling proactive management and protecting both people and profits.' About SEMM Holdings SEMM Holdings delivers Operational Excellence Through Compliance, Safety, and Profit Protection. The SEMM family of companies (The Integritus Group, Learn it Media and Pharma Compliance Group) is connected by a shared commitment to providing world-class service with an innovative approach that drives measurable outcomes. With clients spanning retail, food service, franchise operations, and more, SEMM Holdings ensures organizations maintain integrity, accountability, and peak performance across all levels of operation. About Sharpvue Sharpvue is a leading provider of Mobile AI Surveillance Trailers and commercial cloud video solutions. The company delivers cutting-edge technology tailored to meet the demands of today's most complex operational, security, and business environments. By seamlessly combining digital video, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytics, Sharpvue enables clients to overcome critical challenges in construction, logistics, retail, hospitality, and more. 'We are excited to join forces with SEMM Holdings to bring intelligent surveillance solutions into the core of operational strategy,' said Bob Ryan, Chief Revenue Officer at Sharpvue. 'Together, we're bridging the gap between data, safety, and performance—delivering true value to clients through actionable intelligence and technology innovation.' A New Standard in Safety and Profit Protection This partnership marks the beginning of several joint initiatives aimed at transforming how organizations monitor compliance, manage risks, and drive profitability through smarter systems. By connecting SEMM's operational discipline with Sharpvue's AI-powered surveillance, clients will gain an unparalleled edge in managing dynamic, high-risk environments. Media Contacts: Kevin O'Brien SEMM Holdings [email protected] Bob Ryan Sharpvue [email protected] Contact Information: SEMMM Holdings Kevin O'Brien 781-727-2250 Contact via Email Read the full story here: SEMM Holdings and Sharpvue Announce Strategic Partnership to Transform Operational Excellence and Surveillance Innovation Press Release Distributed by
Irish Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
Agent who allegedly let out 17 overcrowded properties to migrants disputes claims against him
A property agent who let out 17 Dublin properties, which are allegedly overcrowded with migrants and foreign students who were not given written leases, is disputing the claims, the High Court heard. Kevin O'Brien, otherwise Kevin Linehan O'Brien, of North Road, Drogheda, Co Louth, and his company Linehan O'Brien Investments Ltd with a registered address at Adelaide Road, Dublin, had entered into the arrangements without the knowledge of the property owners, who are three companies, and of their agent, it is claimed. The owners got permission last week from the court to serve the proceedings on Mr Linehan O'Brien and the company. The case returned to court on Tuesday when Mr Justice Brian Cregan was told the defendants will be disputing the vast majority of claims against them. READ MORE Brian Conroy SC, for the owners, said the defendants were continuing to trespass on the properties and telling the occupants it was his clients' agents who were trespassing. As a result, there is 'real confusion' for the occupants and his clients want to regularise their position, he said. Mr Conroy said that pending the hearing of the matter, his side was looking for undertakings that the defendants would not interfere with the properties or the occupants. James Daly BL, for the defendants, said he had only just received the papers, would be meeting his client this week and sought until next week to file a replying affidavit. He said the 'vast majority of issues are controverted' and his client's position was that he has tenancy and is in possession of the properties. The alleged confusion as to tenancies is not correct, he said. There was also correspondence from a former employee of the plaintiffs' agent consenting to the subletting, he said. A solicitor acting for an estate involving a property in Rathmines, separate from those in this case, asked to be heard by the court. Peter Boyle of Charles BW Boyle and Son said his clients were in a similar situation and their agent had been confronted by the same defendant in this case. Mr Boyle was told by the judge he would have to bring separate proceedings. The judge gave directions for the exchange of papers between the parties and said he would case manage the matter and give it an early hearing. 'I am very concerned about this situation for obvious reasons,' he said. He would put the matter in for Friday and he would deal with it on an interim basis after he heard there were concerns about the defendants approaching the occupants of the properties. The houses and apartments, in areas including Portobello, East Wall, Capel Street and Ranelagh, had been leased through QTX Services Ltd to Mr Linehan O'Brien or his company on behalf of the corporate owners of the properties, Blumay Ltd, Sunchulo Ltd, Maroon Zirconium Ltd and Harts Alexandra Ltd. The owners seek injunctions restraining the defendant from trespassing, representing themselves as being manager of the properties and from interfering with the owners' agent in taking back possession of the properties. Mr Linehan O'Brien, in response to communications from QTX, has claimed what the owners were doing was illegal and insisted that the matter falls under the remit of the Residential Tenancies Board, which the owners dispute because he is not in personal possession.
BreakingNews.ie
20-05-2025
- Business
- BreakingNews.ie
Agent who let out 17 overcrowded properties to migrants disputes claims against him
A property agent who let out 17 Dublin properties, which are allegedly overcrowded with migrants and foreign students who were not given written leases, is disputing the claims, the High Court heard. Kevin O'Brien, otherwise Kevin Linehan O'Brien, and his company Linehan O'Brien Investments, with a registered address at Adelaide Road, Dublin, had entered into the arrangements without the knowledge of the property owners, who are three companies, and of their agent, it is claimed. Advertisement The owners got permission last week from the court to serve the proceedings on Mr Linehan O'Brien and the company. The case returned to court on Tuesday when Mr Justice Brian Cregan was told the defendants will be disputing the vast majority of claims against him. Brian Conroy SC, for the owners, said the defendants were continuing to trespass on the properties and telling the occupants it was his clients' agents who were trespassing. As a result there is "real confusion" for the occupants and his clients want to regularise their position, he said. Mr Conroy said that pending the hearing of the matter, his side was looking for undertakings that the defendants would not interfere with the properties or the occupants. Advertisement James Daly BL, for the defendants, said he had only just received the papers, would be meeting his client this week and sought until next week to file a replying affidavit. He said the "vast majority of issues are controverted" and his client's position was that he has tenancy and is in possession of the properties. The alleged confusion as to tenancies is not correct, he said. There was also correspondence from a former employee of the plaintiffs' agent consenting to the sub-letting, he said. A solicitor acting for an estate involving a property in Rathmines, separate from those in this case, asked to be heard by the court. Peter Boyle of Charles W Boyle and Sons said his clients were in a very similar situation and their agent had been confronted by the same defendant in this case. Mr Boyle was told by the judge he would have to bring separate proceedings. Advertisement The judge gave directions for the exchange of papers between the parties and said he would case manage the matter and give it an early hearing. "I am very concerned about this situation for obvious reasons," he said. He would put the matter in for Friday and he would deal with it on an interim basis after he heard there were concerns about the defendants approaching the occupants of the properties. The houses and apartments, in areas including Portobello, East Wall, Capel Street and Ranelagh, had been leased through QTX Services Ltd to Mr Linehan O'Brien or his company on behalf of the corporate owners of the properties, Blumay Ltd, Sunchulo Ltd, Maroon Zirconium Ltd and Harts Alexandra Ltd. QTX says it only became aware of the arrangements with Mr Linehan O'Brien after the employee who had dealt with him left her position and QTX carried out an inspection. Advertisement The owners seek injunctions restraining the defendant from trespassing, representing themselves as being manager of the properties and from interfering with the owners' agent in taking back possession of the properties. Mr Linehan O'Brien, in response to communications from QTX, has claimed what the owners were doing was illegal and insisted that the matter falls under the remit of the Residential Tenancies Board, which the owners dispute because he is not in personal possession.
