Xi Jinping’s Dominance: A Showcase of Absolute Power
In a move underscoring his unparalleled authority, Xi Jinping has used China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) to cement his control. The annual gathering, starting on March 5th, 2024, has traditionally been a platform for addressing the nation’s pressing issues and showcasing the government’s response to economic challenges. However, this year’s proceedings have diverged from tradition, focusing heavily on Xi’s supremacy rather than addressing the country’s urgent needs.
The NPC is typically a formal affair, but this year’s session has been marked by a conspicuous display of Xi Jinping’s central role. In a surprising shift, it was announced on March 4th that Premier Li Qiang would not hold his customary press conference at the end of the session or in future years, except under “special circumstances.” This announcement marked the end of a long-standing tradition dating back to the 1980s, where prime ministers would engage with the media, revealing their policy preferences and personal insights. This change underscores a troubling trend: Xi Jinping is now the sole focal point in Chinese politics, sidelining other significant figures.
The Economic Disconnection: Policy vs. Reality
Despite his absence from the forefront, Xi’s influence was evident in Premier Li’s speech on the opening day. Li’s address was laden with references to Xi, crediting him with China’s accomplishments in 2023. Li urged officials to grasp the “decisive significance” of Xi Jinping’s leadership, revealing the diminishing role of other policymakers. The expectation that Li, known for his support of foreign investors and private enterprises, would advocate for economic reforms has proven unfounded. Instead, his role has been relegated to ceremonial duties, with Xi maintaining tight control over economic policy.
Li’s announcement of a GDP growth target of “around 5%” for 2024 is seen as ambitious but increasingly challenging. Last year, China achieved this target with a growth rate of 5.2%. However, this year lacks the boost of COVID-19 restrictions removal and faces a reluctance to implement aggressive stimulus measures, despite ongoing economic risks. Consumer and producer prices have shown a decline, and the property crisis persists with no resolution in sight. Additionally, China’s stock market has lost approximately $4 trillion in value since its peak in 2021, and consumer confidence remains low.
The government’s proposed solutions, including a modest increase in fiscal deficit and special bonds issuance, fall short of addressing the underlying economic malaise. The planned fiscal push, including a 3% budget deficit and infrastructure investments, is unlikely to stem the tide of deflation. Analysts, such as Robin Xing from Morgan Stanley, anticipate that further stimulus will be necessary later in the year to meet growth targets.
Strategic Shifts and Political Maneuvering
As China grapples with its economic challenges, Xi Jinping’s focus has shifted towards enhancing technological self-reliance and mitigating geopolitical tensions. In his speech, Li emphasized the need for “greater self-reliance and strength” in science and technology, with a 10% increase in spending for 2024. This focus on technological independence aligns with China’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on foreign powers, particularly in the context of a looming U.S. presidential election.
China’s foreign policy remains a contentious issue, with recent developments in the South China Sea and military agreements with countries like the Maldives drawing international attention. However, the NPC session is unlikely to address these foreign policy issues in depth, as the focus remains on consolidating domestic control and reinforcing the Communist Party’s authority. Legal revisions expected to be approved during the session will further tighten the party’s grip over the State Council, mandating unwavering adherence to party decisions.
In conclusion, Xi Jinping’s dominance during the NPC reflects a strategic shift towards consolidating power and controlling narrative, overshadowing critical economic discussions. The disconnect between the government’s policies and the actual economic needs of the country raises concerns about the effectiveness of current strategies. While Xi’s show of strength may reinforce his position, it remains to be seen whether this approach will effectively address China’s economic and geopolitical challenges.
Summary:
China’s National People’s Congress has become a stage for showcasing Xi Jinping’s power, overshadowing urgent economic issues. With Premier Li Qiang’s role diminished and economic policies failing to address deflation and other challenges, Xi’s focus on consolidating control and enhancing technological self-reliance is evident. The disconnect between policy and reality highlights concerns about China’s future economic trajectory.
Sunil Garnayak is an expert in Indian news with extensive knowledge of the nation’s political, social, and economic landscape and international relations. With years of experience in journalism, Sunil delivers in-depth analysis and accurate reporting that keeps readers informed about the latest developments in India. His commitment to factual accuracy and nuanced storytelling ensures that his articles provide valuable insights into the country’s most pressing issues.
