Based on the provided web search results and the context from Xi Hua’s article, here’s a comprehensive reply:
Xi Hua’s article draws parallels between Prince Qing of the Qing Dynasty and certain high-ranking officials in the Communist Party of China (CPC), particularly Zeng Qinghong. The article highlights four major characteristics of “Prince Qing,” which include:
- Long tenure in the highest power center with deep favor from the top leader but lacking governing talent.
- Possession of huge overseas assets, which are challenging to trace and would be exposed if the official falls.
- Proficiency in handling scandals and maintaining a firm grip on power despite major controversies.
- A tendency to cultivate circles of corruption and influence.
Xi Hua suggests that zeng Qinghong, a former member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC and Vice Chairman of the State, embodies these characteristics. Zeng was a key figure in the Jiang Zemin faction and was seen as the second most powerful figure in that group.
Xi Jinping launched an anti-corruption campaign in his first term, which many analysts beleive was aimed at dismantling the power base of Jiang Zemin and Zeng qinghong. This campaign has been described as “dire and complex” by Xi himself, indicating the deep-seated nature of corruption within the CPC (Source 1).
The campaign has continued into 2025, with the CPC leadership holding meetings to discuss economic, party conduct, and anti-corruption efforts for the year (Source 2). xi has warned of “catastrophic” risks if the anti-corruption crackdown eases, emphasizing that the fight against corruption remains “grave” (Source 3).
In this context, Xi Hua’s article can be seen as a critique of the enduring influence of figures like Zeng Qinghong and the challenges posed by corruption within the CPC. The article underscores the need for continued vigilance and the potential consequences of easing the anti-corruption efforts.Based on the provided text, here’s a summary of the political dynamics between xi Jinping and Zeng Qinghong before the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China:
- power Struggle: Xi Jinping and Zeng Qinghong had a meaningful power struggle. Zeng was seen as the leader of the anti-Xi forces within the party, with his confidants and allies holding key positions in the political and legal system.
- Anti-Corruption Campaign: Xi launched an anti-corruption campaign targeting his political rivals, including those associated with Jiang Zemin and Zeng Qinghong. This campaign led to the replacement of key figures in the political and legal system with Xi’s allies.
- Three Re-Elections: Xi’s pursuit of a third term in office (often referred to as “three re-elections”) was a contentious issue. Many within the party opposed this, leading to anti-Xi sentiments and rumors of coups.
- Media and Propaganda: The People’s Daily, the official newspaper of the Chinese Communist Party, published articles emphasizing the party’s commitment to fighting corruption, indirectly reflecting the power struggle.
- Economic Pressure: Zeng Qinghong’s niece’s company, Huayangnian, faced financial difficulties, with creditors demanding repayment or liquidation. This was seen as economic pressure on Zeng’s family.
- Outcome: Ultimately, Xi achieved his goal of “three re-elections.” It was implied that those who did not oppose Xi’s third term would not face his wrath, including Zeng Qinghong.
This summary highlights the complex political dynamics and power struggles within the Chinese Communist Party leading up to the 20th National Congress.It seems like your sharing a narrative about political power struggles within the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), specifically around the figure of Xi Jinping. Here’s a summary and some context:
- Power Struggle: After the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee,Xi Jinping fell ill,and anti-Xi forces,led by Zhang Youxia,gained momentum. they criticized Xi’s cult of personality and emphasized collective leadership, leading to the removal of some of Xi’s key allies, including Miao Hua and other senior generals.
- Xi’s countermeasures: Xi responded by relaunching his anti-corruption campaign, aiming to maintain and strengthen his power. He promoted “self-revolution” and vowed to continue fighting corruption without mercy.
- Propaganda: Xi’s propaganda machine, led by figures like Cai Qi, began replaying the old tune of “no ‘iron hat king'”, a phrase used to criticize those who protect corrupt officials.
- Observation: As an observer and researcher of the CCP’s anti-corruption efforts in 2025, the author expresses skepticism about the impact of this campaign, suggesting that Xi’s power may not be significantly affected by these measures.
Here are a few points to consider:
- Power Dynamics: The CCP is known for its internal power struggles, and these dynamics can be complex and fluid. While Xi’s power may be challenged, it’s also possible that he could consolidate his power further.
- Anti-Corruption Campaigns: The CCP has used anti-corruption campaigns as a tool to remove political rivals and consolidate power.However, these campaigns can also have unintended consequences, such as undermining the rule of law and creating an habitat of fear and uncertainty.
- International Context: The narrative also reflects broader geopolitical tensions, as the CCP’s internal power struggles can have implications for international relations and global politics.
- Future Uncertainty: As the narrative is set in 2025, it’s significant to remember that predictions about future events are always uncertain. The actual outcome of these power struggles could be quite different from what’s described here.
Since President Xi took office in late 2012, a total of 294 senior officials and 2.3 million officials have been targeted with investigations by the CCDI. Under Xi’s leadership, the CCDI has investigated more managers of state-owned and private firms every year than Xi’s predecessor Hu jintao (in office 2002-2012) did in any year of his presidency.
Xi has investigated and dealt with more than 720 senior officials at the vice-provincial and ministerial levels and other central-level cadres. This is equivalent to xi creating 720 “enemy” among the senior Chinese Communist Party officials. With the families, children, relatives, friends, and backstage of these senior officials, Xi Shu has more “enemy”. Along with people from other classes of people who were suppressed by Xi, Xi looked at him and saw “enemy” everywhere. Now, Xi has visited local and has strict security, surpassing all the highest leaders in the history of the Communist Party of China. Some people describe it as if they have experienced “enemy-occupied areas”.
Thus, I think that now is not the time for Xi to win the “Iron Hat King”, but Xi is always worried about how to protect himself in coups, mutinies and civil unrest.
The so-called “no ‘Iron Hat King'” can be stopped!
According to the CNN report, Miao, the latest senior Chinese military officer to face investigation, is seen as a political patron of Dong, who is also an admiral and previously served as the top commander of the PLA Navy. Miao and Dong both hail from Fujian, Xi’s political power base, added the report.Miao’s rise within the PLA is closely tied to Xi’s ascent to power,with a major part of his career coinciding with Xi’s rise.
_Maintaining Vigilance: Xi Jinping’s Anti-Corruption Campaign adn the Influence of Zeng Qinghong_
In the context of the upcoming 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, the political dynamics between Xi Jinping and Zeng Qinghong have been a focal point.Xi Jinping launched an extensive anti-corruption campaign in his first term, which many analysts believe was aimed at dismantling the power base of Jiang Zemin and Zeng Qinghong. This campaign has been described as “dire and complex” by Xi himself, indicating the deep-seated nature of corruption within the CPC (Source [1]).
The campaign has continued into 2025, with the CPC leadership holding meetings to discuss economic, party conduct, and anti-corruption efforts for the year (Source [2]). Xi has warned of “catastrophic” risks if the anti-corruption crackdown eases, emphasizing that the fight against corruption remains “grave” (Source [3]).
In this context, an article by Xi Hua can be seen as a critique of the enduring influence of figures like Zeng Qinghong and the challenges posed by corruption within the CPC. The article underscores the need for continued vigilance and the potential consequences of easing the anti-corruption efforts.
Interview with An Expert on Chinese Politics
Editor: Can you explain the context and importance of the power struggle between Xi Jinping and Zeng Qinghong before the 20th National Congress?
Expert: The power struggle between Xi Jinping and Zeng Qinghong was deeply rooted in the factional divisions within the Communist Party of China. zeng qinghong was seen as a key figure in the Jiang Zemin faction and was regarded as the second most powerful figure in that group. Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign, which was launched in his first term, was widely perceived as a means to dismantle the power base of Jiang Zemin and Zeng Qinghong. This campaign was critical for Xi to consolidate his power and reduce the influence of rival factions within the party.
Editor: How has the anti-corruption campaign evolved since its inception, and what are its implications for the upcoming congress?
Expert: The anti-corruption campaign, which began under Xi Jinping, has continued into 2025. The campaign has not only targeted high-profile individuals but has also permeated various levels of the CPC. the leadership has held several meetings to discuss economic,party conduct,and anti-corruption efforts for the year. Xi has emphasized that the fight against corruption remains grave and has warned of catastrophic risks if the crackdown eases. this indicates that the anti-corruption campaign is central to the agenda for the 20th National Congress and will likely play a crucial role in shaping the party’s future policies and leadership structure.
Editor: What is the significance of the article by Xi Hua in this context?
Expert: Xi hua’s article can be seen as a critique of the enduring influence of figures like Zeng qinghong and the challenges posed by corruption within the CPC. The article underscores the need for continued vigilance and the potential consequences of easing the anti-corruption efforts.It reflects the broader concern within the party about the persistence of corruption and the need for sustained and robust efforts to combat it. The article also highlights the political sensitivity of the issue and the ongoing efforts to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the party’s leadership.
Editor: How does the ongoing anti-corruption campaign impact the military, notably given the recent investigation of senior military officers?
Expert: The anti-corruption campaign has important implications for the military, as it seeks to cleanse potential influences that could undermine party leadership. The recent investigation of senior military officers, such as Miao and Admiral Dong, underscores the campaign’s reach into the military.Thes investigations are seen as part of Xi Jinping’s effort to neutralize political rivals and ensure loyalty within the military ranks. the close ties between these officers and Xi’s political base highlight the strategic importance of controlling the military narrative in the broader power struggle.
conclusion
The power struggle between Xi jinping and Zeng Qinghong has been a defining feature of the political landscape within the Communist party of China. Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign has been a key tool in his effort to consolidate power and reduce the influence of rival factions.The ongoing campaign, evolving since its inception, continues to shape the party’s agenda and will likely play a crucial role in the upcoming 20th National Congress. The article by Xi Hua underscores the need for continued vigilance and robust efforts to combat corruption, reflecting the broader political concerns within the party.
