The Weakness of Xi Jinping: How Hubris and Paranoia Threaten China s Future
Outwardly, Xi still projects confidence. In a speech in January 2021, he declared China invincible. But behind the scenes, his power is being questioned as never before. By discarding China s long tradition of collective rule and creating a cult of personality reminiscent of the one that surrounded Mao, Xi has rankled party insiders. A series of policy missteps, meanwhile, have disappointed even supporters. Xi s reversal of economic reforms and his inept response to the COVID-19 pandemic have shattered his image as a hero of everyday people. In the shadows, resentment among CCP elites is rising.
That darn Xi. Always making rivals resentful of his absolute power.