How does the National People's Congress (NPC) participate in the selection of China's president and vice-president?

The National People's Congress (NPC) participates in the selection of China's president and vice-president primarily by electing candidates from a single nominee. This process is indicative of China's political structure, where the Communist Party of China (CPC) exercises significant control over the political system.

Typically, the CPC determines a single candidate for each of these positions, and then the NPC, which is the highest state body and represents various interests, formally elects these candidates in a largely ceremonial process. The lack of competition in the election reflects the characteristics of a one-party state, where the CPC ensures that its chosen candidates have unanimous or overwhelming support among the delegates of the NPC.

The other options imply a level of electoral competition or public participation that does not exist in the NPC's selection process. For example, the idea of multiple candidates is not applicable because the process is structured to present only one nominee. Additionally, direct appointment by the NPC or a public referendum does not occur, as those mechanisms are not part of the formal selection process for the highest offices in China.