4.1.7. Legislature

♤ The National People’s Congress (NPC) comprises the legislative branch.

♤ It is a unicameral legislature with more than 3000 members.

♤ Theoretically, it is the top decision making body in China. It has the ultimate say on policies, amendments and appointment of ministers in the government.

♤ It has been declared as an organ through which the people exercise state power.

♤ Congressmen are elected by regional Congresses, by autonomous regions, by Municipalities working under the central government and by People’s Liberation Army, each according to its quota.

♤ The mode of election is based on secret ballot, while the constitution guarantees holding of free and fair elections.

♤ The real work of NPC is done by a smaller body known as Standing Committee of NPC, consisting around 150 members.