Thousands Mourn Former Chinese Premier Li Keqiang Amid Government's Restrained Acknowledgement
Observers perceive nationwide mourning as a subtle resistance against President Xi's control; Japan gaps loss of a significant political channel, as Li’s moderation is widely missed.
- China mourns Former Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, with thousands of citizens paying their respects despite government controls. Numerous handwritten tributes and floral displays were observed against a backdrop of restrained media acknowledgments.
- Despite Li's political record, his death has sparked a subtle challenge against President Xi's amplified centralization of power. This is perceived by some as a yearning for a return to a more reformist China.
- Li is remembered for his focus on practical issues such as wage defaults for migrant workers, a product of his own experiences with poverty during childhood. His understanding of down-to-earth issues has led him to be remembered as a leader who was in touch with the people.
- Japan laments the loss of Li Keqiang, with leaders expressing their condolences. They particularly appreciated Li's openness to constructing better trade and political relations. The loss is perceived as a detrimental gap in Sino-Japanese diplomatic relations.
- Despite Li Keqiang's political side-lining by Xi Jinping, public gatherings in his honor have shown a significant citizen response. Such public displays of grief and respect are typically rare in China, indicating a level of unofficial resistance to the current leadership.
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