Observer: No matter who climbs Beijing’s ranks, Xi rules

By DAKE KANG and TED SHAFFREY
Associated Press

GREAT NECK, N.Y. (AP) — For decades, Chinese journalist Ho Pin has made accurate predictions about who would ascend into the ranks of China’s leadership. But this year, just weeks before Beijing reveals its next generation of leaders, Ho says there’s little point. He says Xi has consolidated power to such a degree that no matter who is promoted, they will all have to obey Xi’s rule. That’s a sharp contrast from an earlier era, he says, when political factions jockeyed for control. Though Xi’s power has certain advantages, Ho says, he also worries Xi could become a lifelong dictator.