Xi Solidifies Party Dominance Over State Apparatus at Two Sessions
The first two days of the Two Sessions saw three developments that more firmly entrenched the Party’s domination over the state government.
POLITICS
After Zhang Yang’s Suicide, Senior Military Leaders Attend Study Session in Beijing
◎ China’s top military brass was very likely summoned to Beijing for the study seminar to declare their loyalty to Xi Jinping following the death of Zhang Yang.
Politics Watch: Wang Qishan’s Aide Becomes Vice Chairman of China’s Banking Regulator
◎ The appointment of Wang’s trusted aide to a top position in China’s banking regulator confirms our analysis that Xi is focusing his anti-corruption efforts on the financial sector.
Political Risk Watch: Beijing Training Session for Provincial-level Officials Hints at Turbulent Political Undercurrent
◎ The disquieting official coverage of Zhang Yang’s suicide and Dec. 6 education course for provincial-level officials hint at instability and unease in the CCP’s top civilian and military leadership.
Wang Yang Admits China, North Korea at Odds
◎ From China’s perspective, its number one priority is neutralizing the nuclear facilities near the Chinese border to prevent the possibility of a nuclear detonation.
Which Office Will Li Zhanshu, China’s No. 3, Occupy?
◎ Li Zhanshu should be named NPC chairman.
Clean Up of Propaganda Apparatus Signals Trouble for Liu Yunshan
◎ The propaganda apparatus under Liu Yunshan sought to undermine Xi Jinping by resorting to “gaojihei” smear tactics.
Public Security Minister Signals Purge With Mentions of Zhou Yongkang
◎ Zhao has criticized Zhou in at least six official meetings since taking office after the 19th Party Congress.
Risk Watch: Ningbo Blast Heightens Zhejiang Political Risk
◎ The Ningbo explosion will likely be considered a severe safety accident, and will affect all officials in charge of safety from the district up to the provincial level.
The Political Background of Purged Internet Czar Lu Wei
◎ Lu is the first ministerial-level official to be arrested post-19th Party Congress.