Gao Shanwen, a prominent Chinese economist known for publicly challenging the official gross domestic product growth figures, has died at the age of 55.
Gao passed away on July 7 from lymphoma, according to reports from the Wall Street Journal.
The economist had previously been silenced by Beijing authorities after his public skepticism regarding the accuracy of China's economic data reportedly angered President Xi Jinping.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Xi ordered Cai Qi, a member of the Politburo Standing Committee and director of the General Office of the Central Committee, to investigate Gao.
Following the probe, Gao was banned from making public statements.
Gao's death has drawn attention within China's financial sector and on social media, where he was viewed as a rare voice willing to question the official economic narrative.