Protesters in China demand Xi Jinping step down

Protesters in China demand Xi Jinping step down

Unrest is growing in China over the country's strict COVID-19 measures.

Fresh protests have broken out in major cities, with hundreds rallying at Beijing's elite Tsing-hua University, chanting 'we want freedom.' Many also held up blank sheets of paper in a symbolic protest against state censorship.

More demonstrations have also been reported in Shanghai, following clashes with police overnight.

Public anger has flared after a deadly apartment block fire, with many blaming an ongoing lockdown for hampering rescue efforts.

Chinese officials have defended their zero-covid policiy, despite the growing public backlash.