The official newspaper of China's ruling Communist Party is warning of a growing “crisis of faith” among citizens that could lead to social unrest.

An editorial in The People's Daily says Thursday there is mounting public anger in many communities toward local officials over “forced demolitions” and official corruption. That anger has led to several mass protests in recent years.

The newspaper says the growing anger could undermine the Communist Party's authority, because the party's rule is fundamentally derived from the people.

Chinese President Hu Jintao has made the creation of a “harmonious society” a hallmark of his administration.