Six vice-chairmen of the National People's Congress will retire with its Chief Legislator Qiao Shi in March.
Beijing sources said current vice-chairmen Wang Hanbin , Ni Zhifu , Chen Muhua , Fei Xiaotong , Sun Qimeng and Lei Jieqiong would step down after their second five-year terms.
Vice-Premier Zou Jiahua and state councillors Li Tieying, Li Guixian and Peng Peiyun are expected to be nominated to fill the positions. Sources said Mr Li Tieying was expected to take up Mr Wang's role in charge of law-making, while Ms Peng was likely to assume Ms Chen's job in charge of women's affairs.
Tian Jiyun, NPC Executive Vice-Chairman since 1993, is expected to remain in his post.
The Ninth National People's Congress will open its first session on March 5.
More than 2,000 legislators will elect a new chairman, six vice-chairmen plus a premier and his deputies.
Premier Li Peng will step down after completing two five-year terms. Sources say he is keen to secure the NPC chairmanship.
