Direct election of a villagers' committee originated about twenty years ago. This is seen a wide and effective practice of socialist democracy in the vast Chinese countryside. Voting for their own leaders become a self-conscious act for villagers, and the election become one of the biggest events every three years.

This is the fifth time Jiangmei villagers voted to choose their leader. The scene was still chaotic as hundreds of villagers were gathering.

Miao Chengtang was one of the earliest voters. He told reporters he had to work in the field after voting. But he then decided to stay longer, discussing who to vote for with his fellow villagers.

The farmers' enthusiasm for the voting were obvious. Many had to climb over mountains to get here. Buddhist nuns from a nearby temple also came to exercise their rights.

A simple curtain separated the crowds and the voters, so they could secretly tick the name they preferred. Only designated staff members from the village committee stayed inside the booth to help people who could not read.

After several discussions with other voters, Miao Chengtang made his decision and cast what he called "a sacred vote".

Jiangmei villager, Fuding City of Fujian Province, said, "I voted for the one I am satisfied with."

One of the two candidates, Miao Yougao had been the deputy head for years. He looked very confident talking with his supporters.

Miao Yougao, Village Head Candidate, said, "I am sure I will be a good head. The villagers supported me, and I believe they will continue to support me. I do believe so."

Yougao's rival Miao Tingzhen has been in business for a few years, and considers himself an informed farmer.

Miao Tingzhen, Village Head Candidate, said, "MY experience will help me a lot. I have a good plan to find a bigger market for what we have produced."

The voting would not stop until three pm. Most villagers chose to vote early in the morning and then hurried back to their fields.

Jiangmei is one of the ten thousand villages in Fujian's countryside. All village heads are directly elected by the villagers.

Wang Lixian was the head of Baiyang village for several years, but did not seek re-election this year. However most villagers wrote her name on the ballots, because she did a very good job.