China’s Xi Jinping is facing pressure from Chinese Communist Party elders to establish a more defined succession system, according to insiders.
We are currently witnessing a tumultuous period for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), with leadership succession becoming a critical issue. Party elders reportedly called for a clearer succession system during the Third Plenum in July, where major economic and social policies are decided every five years.
Xi Jinping is now under significant pressure not only from the Party elders but also from the ongoing challenges in the Chinese economy, including the stock market decline, real estate crisis, and local debt issues. Internationally, he is facing obstacles in foreign trade and exports, as well as repercussions from supporting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
With demands from Party elders, Xi may be hesitant to name a successor at this point. However, he cannot ignore the pressure, giving hope to potential successors vying for the position.
Traditionally, CCP leaders have emerged from the Politburo Standing Committee. Premier Li Qiang, as the second-ranking member, is seen as a potential successor to Xi. Despite this, Li lacks significant advantages and faces opposition from retired members of the Jiang faction, also known as the Shanghai clique.
On the other hand, Cai Qi, the director of the CCP General Office and the fifth-ranking member of the Politburo Standing Committee, has been expanding his influence and titles, making it unlikely for him to accept Li as a superior.
Xi will play a crucial role in the succession, but managing the rivalry between Li and Cai poses a significant challenge for him.
Ding Xuexiang, the first vice premier and the sixth-ranking member of the Politburo Standing Committee, is another potential successor arranged by Xi. By keeping Ding on the Standing Committee, Xi seems to be positioning him as a viable candidate for succession.
The outcome of the succession battle will depend on the decisions of the top echelons of the CCP, including the retired Party elders who are focused on maintaining their privileges and power.
In conclusion, the CCP is facing a critical juncture where the direction of the Party in overcoming current challenges and finding a leader to navigate the crisis is paramount. Please rewrite the following sentence:
“The project was completed on time and within budget.”
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