China Mourns Loss of Reformist Leader Li Keqiang Amid Rise of Xi Jinping
Flags were at half-mast in Beijing as China prepared for the funeral of former premier Li Keqiang, who passed away from a sudden heart attack at the age of 68. Li, known for his advocacy of political liberalization and economic reform, was once expected to become the country’s future leader. However, he was overshadowed by the ascendancy of Xi Jinping and his more centralized governance style.
Li, an economist and fluent English speaker, served as premier from 2013 until his retirement just months ago. His tenure witnessed a shift from consensus-based rule to Xi’s concentrated leadership. Although the ruling Communist Party described Li as a time-tested and loyal communist soldier in an official obituary, his relatively muted state commemoration and heavy online censorship hint at efforts to restrain public expressions of sorrow for Xi’s onetime rival.
The funeral ceremony will be attended by China’s top leadership, and Li will be cremated on Thursday. National flags flew at half-mast in Tiananmen Square and other locations across Beijing, as well as in government buildings throughout mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau.
Following the announcement of Li’s death, mourners laid flowers in his hometown and former residence in the province of Anhui. Social media users have also shared some of his famous quotes, including his declaration of support for China’s reform and opening policy.
However, authorities appear to be vigilant against public mourning for Li turning into criticism of Xi. On the social media site Weibo, over 20,000 comments were posted beneath a hashtag commemorating Li, but only 13 appeared visible, suggesting extensive censorship. The remaining comments were apolitical, bidding farewell to the late premier and expressing that he would forever be remembered.
Certain comments were more critical, such as those found on the former Weibo page of whistleblower doctor Li Wenliang. Li Wenliang passed away in early 2020 after being silenced by officials for trying to warn others about the COVID-19 pandemic, which sparked a public outcry.
Li Keqiang’s passing marks the end of an era for reform-minded leaders in China, overshadowed by the dominant leadership of Xi Jinping. The future direction of the country under Xi’s centralized governance style continues to unfold, leaving behind a legacy of Li’s commitment to economic reform and political liberalization.
