Vice-Premier Wang Qishan to head anti-corruption agency
Wang Qishan is given seat on top disciplinary body, setting him up to fill the seventh - and possibly last - spot on the Standing Committee
Vice-Premier Wang Qishan was given a seat on the Communist Party's top disciplinary body yesterday, clearing the way for him to lead the anti-graft agency and take a seat on the Politburo's powerful Standing Committee.
As Wang was elevated to the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), a move anticipated previously by the South China Morning Post, long-time CCDI member Ma Wen was left off the agency list approved by delegates at the end of the 18th party congress.
Given his position, Wang will almost certainly take control of the CCDI. The move sets up his rise to the No7 - and potentially final - spot on the new Politburo Standing Committee, which will be announced today.
Wang, who has a strong background in economic issues, had previously been seen as a shoo-in to be the country's economic tsar. Analysts attributed his repositioning largely to concerns that he could overshadow incoming premier Li Keqiang , outgoing President Hu Jintao's closest ally on the Standing Committee.
Those close to Wang, 64, have said he preferred a job with full authority over a portfolio, rather than a higher position such as vice-premier which might require him to defer to Li more often.
Professor Wang Yukai of the Chinese Academy of Governance said Wang would face many challenges adjusting to the delicate post of disciplinary chief.
"Wang is widely recognised for his successful dealings on financial issues," Wang Yukai said. "He has a strong personality, and is a vigorous and resolute person. It would be very tough for someone with such characteristics in the party disciplinary job."