Qiao Shi

Qiao Shi (乔石, December 1915 – June 14, 2015) was a high-ranking politician in the People's Republic of China. He was a member of the Politburo Standing Committee, the country's top decision-making body, from 1987 to 1997.

Qiao Shi was born in Dinghai, Zhejiang Province. He joined the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 1940 and spent much of his early career in Shanghai, working in underground organizations and holding positions within the CPC's Shanghai Committee.

After the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, Qiao Shi held various positions in industry and economic management. In the 1980s, he rose to prominence in the Party's central apparatus, holding positions related to organization, discipline inspection, and security.

As a member of the Politburo Standing Committee, Qiao Shi was responsible for overseeing law enforcement and judicial affairs. He served as the Secretary of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, the head of the Central Politics and Law Committee, and Chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) from 1993 to 1998. As Chairman of the NPC, he played a significant role in strengthening the legislative branch and promoting the rule of law in China. He retired from his official positions in 1998.

Qiao Shi was often perceived as a relatively moderate voice within the leadership, advocating for greater transparency and legal reform. He was known for his focus on strengthening legal institutions and promoting the rule of law as essential for China's continued development and stability.