A Chinese dissident who's a member of the newly formed China Democracy Party says the authorities have decided to let him stand as a candidate in elections next week.

The dissident, Yu Tielong, is challenging official Communist Party candidates for the leadership of a village committee.

His announcement follows a series of arrests of other dissidents associated with the Democracy Party.

A BBC correspondent says Mr Yu's candidacy represents a significant challenge to the Chinese government -- his party is is being treated as a serious political threat by the Communists who have not tolerated any organised opposition since they came to power in 1949.

However, our correspondent points out that even if Mr Yu wins the election, his appointment will still have to be confirmed by the authorities.