China - March 2023
Xi Jinping begins historic third term as head of state
The National People’s Congress (NPC) confirmed Chairman Xi Jinping’s third term as head of state on 10 March. Analysts note that Xi’s re-appointment completes the expansion of his powers over the Chinese political system. The widely expected “ceremonial” move comes after he was handed an unprecedented third term as the Secretary General of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in October 2022. Xi’s allies were also appointed to key government roles throughout the two-day annual session, including the party’s second-in-command, Li Qiang taking over as premier. The “Two Sessions” also unveiled sweeping reforms that extends the CCP’s grip over finance, technology and other sectors.
Sources: South China Morning Post, BBC News, NPR
