Representative Mike Gallagher, chair of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), has denounced China's escalating suppression of religious freedom, accusing President Xi Jinping of "playing the role of God." During a roundtable discussion with religious leaders from various faiths, including those who have escaped persecution in China, the committee heard firsthand accounts of the CCP's efforts to control religious beliefs.

Gallagher alleges that the CCP is "rewriting the Bible," replacing the Ten Commandments in some regions with quotes from Xi. He cited examples from Henan province where commandments like "Thou shalt have no other gods before Me" are reportedly replaced with Xi's pronouncements such as "Resolutely guard against the infiltration of Western ideology."

Experts highlighted that this religious oppression is part of a broader pattern of control exerted by the Chinese government, encompassing human rights abuses against Uyghurs and widespread censorship through technology.

Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, argued that China has become more repressive due to its global economic power, allowing it to act with impunity. He criticized the 2000 decision granting China permanent "most favored nation" status, which has failed to improve human rights and instead influenced American business values.

Perkins advocated for targeting China's economic interests to hold them accountable. Other religious leaders proposed actions like establishing communication networks with religious groups in China, supporting a U.N. special hearing on religious oppression by the CCP, and relocating industries out of China.

Imam Hajim urged the U.S. to address the issue with Muslim nations, many of whom have strengthened ties with China despite human rights abuses against Uyghurs. He suggested raising awareness among Muslim populations about the Uyghur situation to encourage pressure on China.

The roundtable participants emphasized the need for Western religious leaders to inform their congregations about religious persecution globally. Representative Carlos Gimenez stressed the importance of connecting theology with real-world issues, urging religious leaders to address these concerns.