As North Korea's self-imposed deadline of emerging as the next economic power by 2012 fast approaches, strongman Kim Jong-Il unbelievably commanded officials of the Worker's Party to roam around the markets in cities and provinces to demand cash donations from already impoverished citizens, says an official speaking in anonymity.

Korea Times reported that the propaganda officials conduct lectures exhorting those present in the premises to support the communist's move for a "strong and prosperous" state.

"The regime is squeezing the people even at a time when it cannot afford to provide rations," Korea Times quoted the unnamed source.

"Ten thousand Won is good. One million Won is also good. Contribute on your own accord," a Korean Web site, koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com quoted the same source, describing how the lecturers insist on reaping funds from the residents.

The Chosunilbo in South Korea reported that the Worker's Party officials even stimulated a spirit of competition among citizens by emphasizing that others have donated in huge amounts.

Experts say the move is in line with North Korea's 100 years birthday celebration of its founder Kim Il-Sung next year. Meanwhile, analysts eye the situation as a crucial and strong move as Kim Jong-Il transfers the leadership to his youngest son, Jong-un.

North Korea relies on international assistance to feed the citizens. In summer, torrential floods swept away thousands of hectares of farmlands, leaving the whole country in extreme famine. But despite the situation, Kim Jong-il pointed out ultimate sacrifice is essential.

"The more people there are who try to take from the country rather than give, the nation grows weak and the fatherland will never be able to walk the path of prosperity," the koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com Web site quoted Kim Jong-Il's statement published in North Korea's state-run newspaper Rodong Sinmun.

The same paper quoted Kim that Ri Song-jin's sacrifice is a precedent. In a failed attempt to save his cow in a destructive floods this summer, Ri died.