China has issued new background check guidelines for civilian personnel working with the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to ensure their absolute loyalty to the ruling Communist Party.
Although civilian personnel are not on active duty, they shoulder great responsibilities, the PLA Daily, the military's mouthpiece said today.
PLA officers cited in the article said civilians must be firm in faith and follow the lead of the Communist Party of China at all times, in all circumstances, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.
The regulation addresses the challenges brought about by an increasing number of army civilian personnel and their diverse backgrounds.
Those who have participated in or supported violence, terrorism or religious extremism will not be considered qualified for the service.
Those convicted of criminal offences or who have been subject to administrative detention are also ineligible to service,
Also disqualified are those with close contact to overseas organisations, or persons with "complicated" political backgrounds.
It was drafted by the General Political Department of the PLA and the Ministry of Public Security.
