Former president Jiang Zemin made his first public appearance yesterday since intense speculation three months ago that he had died or was terminally ill.
Frail, but apparently in high spirits, the 85-year-old Jiang almost stole all the limelight at the nationally televised gathering of incumbent and retired leaders in the Great Hall of the People, marking the centenary of the 1911 revolution. Analysts said Jiang's surprise appearance was clearly a well-planned move aimed at halting rampant rumours about his failing health, as well as to send out a message that he is still capable of wielding considerable influence ahead of next year's leadership reshuffle.
The former leader was greeted with a standing ovation when he walked onto the rostrum, all smiles and waving, behind President Hu Jintao but ahead of more than a dozen current and former members of the Politburo Standing Committee.
Apparently still recovering from an unspecified illness, he mainly walked on his own, but a little unsteadily, and sometimes with the help of an aide at his side.
After his aides helped him sit down, Jiang engaged in a short, animated conversation with Hu, who sat beside him, and later offered a handshake after Hu finished his speech.
Although he appeared to be tired at times during the 40-minute event, he sat mostly still listening to speeches, stood to the singing of the national anthem and applauded with others.
Beijing-based political analyst Chen Ziming said Jiang's appearance underlined his lingering clout on major political decisions, especially in the lead-up to the leadership reshuffle at next year's 18th national party congress. 'It's all about political influence,' Chen said. 'The message is crystal clear: as long as he remains well and kicking, he still has the ability to influence decisions regarding key personnel changes.'