Summary
China has intensified its crackdown on erotic fiction writers, particularly those creating danmei (gay romance/erotica), with over 50 arrests in Anhui province since June 2024.
At least 10 individuals have been sentenced, with penalties reaching up to 4.5 years in prison. Many writers published on Taiwan-based Haitang Literature, which has faced disruption.
Under China’s strict laws, earning over 250,000 yuan (~$34,500) from such works can result in a life sentence, though reduced sentences are possible if profits are repaid.
Critics argue the campaign undermines freedom of expression and inflates sales figures to justify harsh punishments.
I will look into the approval rates and the mentioned study(I think I found which one you meant) later this day. However in terms of elections its quite easy.
China has a one party political system. This means, that there is no opposition. All members that may get elected to any position are picked by the CCP. All elections must adhere to the ruling of the CCP. The ruling of the CCP is part of the Chinese constitution.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elections_in_China
This doesn’t sound the slightest like a free democratic election. Also you have to take into Account, that The CCP controls everything, including propaganda. I havent found that much about manipulated elections in china(search engines suck nowadays), but will look into it later too.