China is struggling with the worst corona outbreak since the pandemic began. The record number of new infections is the result of tentative easing of the strict zero-Covid policy. But the rapidly increasing corona numbers show that the strategy is not working. Should the government continue to stick to its zero-case policy, there are fears of tough lockdowns like in Shanghai, possibly even nationwide. That would also put an abrupt end to the protests.
The power to do so is held by head of state and party leader Xi Jinping. Since the party congress in mid-October, only Xi loyalists have been in the innermost circle of leaders of the ruling Communist Party. That is why he can also take extreme measures without having to reckon with resistance.
This is all the more true as the protests are no longer directed only against the corona restrictions, but against the Communist Party and even against Xi himself. This will result in even tougher repression. Xi has always made it clear that keeping the Communist Party in power is his top priority.
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