A FEROCIOUS factional struggle has underpinned the celebrations of the Mao centenary, with the Deng Xiaoping faction gaining the upper hand.
For the party's conservative wing, the Mao-related festivities are a god-sent opportunity to fly the flag of orthodox Marxism.
The theme of galas and academic conferences organised by the remnant Maoists is that Mao's teachings remain the guiding principle for the nation, and that Mr Deng ideas are but offshoots of Mao Thought.
The central leadership, however, has decided that in the media and public functions, a 60-40 split be observed between efforts to glorify the achievements of Mr Deng and those of the Great Helmsman.
The ruling faction in the party has made the point that the best way to celebrate Mao is to implement the edicts of Mr Deng, which have lifted Mao Thought to a higher plane.
Such an emphasis has aroused resentment in pockets of Maoism, including Hunan and Hubei provinces.
