The sudden death of Li Keqiang, China’s former premier, has brought immense grief and sadness to the people of China. Mourners from Li’s hometown of Hefei have been gathering at his childhood home on Hongxing road, paying their respects and leaving flowers to honor the great leader. The overwhelming display of love and admiration for Li is a testament to his impact and the deep connection he had with the ordinary people of China.
Li Keqiang’s passing has not only prompted sorrow but has also brought forth the discussion of his political vision and contrasted it with the current leadership of Xi Jinping. While openly criticizing Xi or the Communist Party would be perilous, the remembrance of Li provides a window to acknowledge his more open and moderate approach to politics. Many see this as a stark contrast to Xi’s hardline style, which has garnered criticism from some segments of the population.
One middle-aged woman, dressed elegantly with a pearl necklace and earrings, shares her sentiments about Li’s concern for ordinary people and how he always had them in his heart. However, officials interrupt her and the BBC crew, exemplifying the limitations on freedom of speech in China. Numerous plainclothes officers surround those speaking to the media, preventing them from expressing their love and gratitude towards Li.
Despite these restrictions, the voices of the people manage to break free. Two young women in their 20s attempt to explain their admiration for Li but are drowned out by the shouts and orders to leave. The scene repeats itself when two other women, accompanied by their elderly mother in a wheelchair, try to share their experience of paying respects to Li. The control exerted by officials and their efforts to stifle these personal accounts highlight the sensitive nature of openly discussing contrasting leadership styles.
An individual present in Hefei from Shanghai praises Li’s truthfulness and willingness to understand the hardships faced by ordinary people. He makes a careful comparison between Li Keqiang and Li Qiang, suggesting that the former was revered by the people while the latter is regarded as a sycophant. When asked about the superiority of Li Keqiang over Li Qiang, he defers to the opinions of the people in Shanghai, emphasizing the widespread support for the former premier.
It is evident that the public’s fondness for Li Keqiang stems from his genuine concern for ordinary Chinese citizens. His humble background and continuous efforts to address the struggles faced by those with low income resonated deeply with the people. Li’s actions and words endeared him to the masses, as he constantly displayed a down-to-earth nature in contrast to the typical behavior of government officials.
The mourning extends beyond Li’s childhood home, as thousands of flowers surround another house in the village of Jiuzi where Li spent his early years. Police have ensured a clear pathway for mourners, allowing them to honor Li’s memory. The respect shown by the people, young and old, is a testament to the lasting impact Li Keqiang had on China.
The death of Li Keqiang poses a potential challenge to Xi Jinping’s leadership. Li’s more open and moderate approach to politics highlighted the contrasting styles between the former premier and the current leader. While the Communist Party has allowed this remembrance of Li, it also signifies the potential threat it poses to Xi’s authority. The suppression of voices sharing their admiration for Li is a reminder of the controlled media environment in China, where expressing divergent opinions can lead to repercussions.
As China mourns the loss of a great leader, it is crucial to respect the sentiments and emotions of the people. The legacy of Li Keqiang serves as a reminder of the impact leaders can have on the lives of ordinary citizens. Additionally, it prompts a reflection on the current political climate and the role of leadership in shaping a nation’s future.
Moving forward, it remains to be seen how the remembrance of Li Keqiang will influence the political landscape in China. Will it serve as a catalyst for change, prompting a reevaluation of Xi Jinping’s leadership style? Or will it fade into memory, leaving behind unanswered questions about the future path of the Communist Party? Only time will tell, but for now, Li Keqiang’s legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of the Chinese people.