In 2004, the most frequently used phrase in the Chinese news media was ""governance ability."" Chinese communists raised this premise of building a governance ability, and attached to it the utmost importance as regards the fate of the Party and the nation. Within this concept, ability to govern is neither innate nor a skill that can be learned once and for all, but something which must constantly be examined, tested and improved. To the people, it seems that these days being an official is an honorable but onerous occupation.