As for the quotes - according to Chinese their system is democratic. According to Americans theirs is. From my European point of view both are somewhat flawed democracies, China because despite advancing surprisingly quickly they are not there yet when it comes to transparency and human rights, and US because its political system is essentially just institutionalized corruption. That and indirect voting.
Yes it's normal for the police to ensure a demonstration goes peacefully. It is a fundamental right in many countries to demonstrate. In China it is not. What country do _you_ leave in, where demonstrating is not allowed?
As for the quotes - according to Chinese their system is democratic. According to Americans theirs is. From my European point of view both are somewhat flawed democracies, China because despite advancing surprisingly quickly they are not there yet when it comes to transparency and human rights, and US because its political system is essentially just institutionalized corruption. That and indirect voting.