FACTIONAL struggles within the Communist Party have taken an intriguing turn with the return of conservative patriarch Chen Yun to the capital.
And while the health of senior leader Deng Xiaoping has continued to hold up, he is said to be increasingly less able to counter the attacks launched by the party's leftist wing.
Chinese sources said Mr Chen, 88, returned to Beijing in late May to keep a closer eye on government efforts to ''restore order'' in the economy.
''Chen returned to Beijing by special plane, accompanied by two doctors dispatched from the capital to ensure his well-being,'' a source said.
''However, the fact that he was fit enough to travel has dispelled long-standing rumours that he is severely sick.'' While Mr Chen has not commented publicly on the economy for almost a year, it is understood he has periodically briefed those close to him on maintaining economic order.
Mr Chen is also believed to have given instructions on tightening control over ideology and the media.