Rumors have begun circulating that Chinese President Xi Jinping might not be in good health after he suddenly vanished from the public eye in recent months.

Amid rumors surrounding the health of Chinese President Xi Jinping, sparked by his unexplained absence from public view in recent times, speculations are rife that a major change may be coming soon within the political leadership of China. While Xi Jinping is believed to be firmly in charge of affairs at this point, there are other high-ranking leaders within the Communist Party of China (CCP), that potentially replace him.

Let us take five most powerful CCP leaders who could replace Xi Jinping.

Who could succeed Xi Jinping?

Li Qiang

The current Premier of China, Li Qiang is a long-time ally of Xi Jinping. Qiang had stood in for the Chinese President at several high-profile global events, including the G20 summit held in India. The Chinese Premier, who ascended to the top post in 2023, is the second-most powerful figure in the government, and heads the State Council which oversees China’s economy.

Li Qiang is also expected to participate in the upcoming BRICS summit in the absence of Xi Jinping.

Ding Xuexiang

The First Vice Premier and Politburo Standing Committee Member, Ding Xuexiang is one of the closest aides of Xi Jinping, having previously served as his chief of staff. Ding’s rapid rise through the ranks without holding provincial leadership roles, is seen as a sign of trust he holds with Xi.

Wang Huning

The current Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Wang Huning is known as the chief theorist of the CCP. Wang has served under three presidents, and his influence over ideology is believed to have shaped the thoughts of Xi Jinping, making him a front runner in the race.

However, Huning is seen as more of a Kingmaker, rather than a contender for the throne, as he lacks administrative experience.

Zhao Leji

Zhao Leji, a senior member of the Politburo Standing Committee, is known for his work in the anti-corruption movement. Currently, Zhao is the Chairman of the National People’s Congress, and his role in the country’s national legislature gives him visibility and authority, particularly over constitutional and legal matters.

Li Hongzhong

Li Hongzhong is a senior member of the CCP who rose through the party’s regional ranks to become a key figure on the national scene. Hongzhong lacks global visibility, which many experts believe to be a good thing as most of China’s rivals, or allies for that matter, would not know what to expect if he succeeds Xi Jinping.

What happened to Xi Jinping?

Rumors have begun circulating that Chinese President Xi Jinping might not be in good health after he suddenly vanished from the public eye in recent months. China’s state-run media has not offered any explanation for his absence, and it is believed that Jinping, for the first time since assuming office, is likely to miss the upcoming BRICS Summit in Brazil, adding more credence to the rumors.