According Radio Free Asia on January 27, 2011, the Southern Daily Group dismissed Chang Ping, a well-known newspaper columnist. At the same time, Li Wenkai, director of the Southern Metropolis Daily, and two editors were asked to leave the Commentary Department of the newspaper.
Compared to other parts of China, the media outlets in Southern China are known for being outspoken. Recently, pressured by the Propaganda Department of the CCP Central Committee, a number of journalists have been let go.
Source: Radio Free Asia, January 27, 2011
http://www.rfa.org/mandarin/yataibaodao/bao-01272011103426.html