Chinese politics are in a tumultuous state under Xi Jinping, as the leader’s authority faces mounting tests across the military, economy, and his own party ranks. As of July 2nd, China is experiencing simultaneous crises: aggressive military purges, a crackdown on “price wars,” and the sudden vanishing of top officials—including Xi himself—for unexplained stretches, all set against an anxious international backdrop.
Xi’s most visible headache is an unprecedented purge sweeping the People’s Liberation Army. At least one top general, Miao Hua, has been ousted from the body overseeing China’s military, with further shake-ups extending deep into the ranks. Reports from Counterpunch and WION detail an atmosphere of suspicion and political prosecutions—fueling speculation about a brewing power struggle inside the Communist Party and its military arm.
As if internal threats weren’t enough, Xi is now waging a “war on price wars,” lambasting Chinese firms for “aggressive price-cutting” and “unhealthy competition” as the economy struggles to regain momentum post-pandemic. The Economist, Asia Financial, and Business Insider chronicle how Xi’s public scolding of price competition is as much about reasserting control as it is about economic policy—reflecting both a stalling recovery and “waning power” at the top.
Behind these maneuvers lies another growing crisis: Xi’s extended disappearance from public view, a hiatus that has triggered a frenzy of rumors about factional infighting and potential shifts in the Chinese leadership. WION, Spectator, and the Lowy Institute document how this absence is being interpreted by analysts as a sign of instability at the summit of Chinese power—a phenomenon unseen since the late-Mao era.
Xi has tried to maintain an image of unyielding authority, calling for “rigorous Party self-governance” and anti-corruption campaigns, but even these measures are now viewed as defensive maneuvers rather than bold reform. The South China Morning Post reports Xi is pushing for stricter regulation of officials’ power—while the Chinese internet buzzes with speculation about his grip on the reins.
Externally, Xi has continued to vow the “reunification” of Taiwan, but the country’s latest propaganda push looks more like sabre-rattling for domestic consumption than imminent action. Meanwhile, economic meetings put the domestic market “at the forefront,” as described by South China Morning Post.
In sum, July 2nd finds Xi Jinping embattled on multiple fronts—wielding purges and propaganda to hold the center, even as power leaks from his grasp. The only thing more opaque than the Chinese state is the true balance of forces inside its corridors, but for now, the era of Xi as “Emperor” looks more embattled than ever.