The Communist Party of China recently concluded its annual “Two Sessions,” which saw significant changes within the State Council and the removal of Prime Minister Li Qiang. The consolidation of power by the Party Central Committee led by Xi Jinping was a key focus during the meetings, with many observers noting the increasing centralization of power within the party and government.
One notable moment during the sessions was when Li Qiang, the outgoing Prime Minister, awkwardly bent down to pick something up during the closing ceremony. This seemingly trivial incident highlighted the strained relationship between Li Qiang and Cai Qi, another prominent figure within the party. Cai Qi, who has been seen as a rising star under Xi Jinping’s leadership, has been gradually gaining more influence and authority within the party, leading to speculation about his ambitions and rivalries within the party leadership.
The amendments to the “Organic Law of the State Council” and the cancellation of the Prime Minister’s press conference have raised concerns about the diminishing role of the State Council and the increasing control of the Party Central Committee over government functions. This power shift has implications for the balance of power within the party and the future direction of Chinese leadership.
Overall, the recent developments at the Communist Party’s “Two Sessions” point to a shifting power dynamic within the party leadership, with implications for future political developments in China. The rivalry between figures like Li Qiang and Cai Qi reflects the complex and often opaque nature of Chinese politics, where personal ambition and loyalty to the party leadership can have far-reaching consequences.