In response to criticism that it is stifling free speech, China has designated three public parks for citizens to air their grievances.

The only problem with that? Besides being out of the way from the main Olympic events, people who decided to take the government up on that offer will have to apply for a permit from the Ministry of Public Security in order to protest at these parks.

Guess what? As expected, the government doesn't really want people to these parks for their designated purpose.

In a Financial Times report, a former resident applied for permit to protest against the demolition of his courtyard home was summarily denied by the police.

Another got a visit from the police at her workplace after she applied for a protest permit.

The three designated parks are: Zizhuyuan Park, Ritan Park, and World Park.