Mao banished his adversaries frequently, whether it was Liu Shaoqi, Lin Biao, or even Deng Xiaoping. Spotlight on XiThe history of the CPC suggests that Mr. Xi wields less power than either Mao Zedong or Deng Xiaoping. Moreover, a military confrontation with the United States leading to a “loss of face”, however limited the engagement, is a risk that Mr. Xi can ill afford. Also read | Chinese Communist Party declares Xi ‘core’ leader: XinhuaContrary to tradition, Mr. Xi has no anointed successor. By comparison, Mr. Xi is “riding a tiger”.

Source: The Hindu May 31, 2020 18:32 UTC