Reformist to ascend to vice president

Reform-minded Politburo member Li Yuanchao will become China’s vice president this week, an unexpected switch from the more conservative propaganda chief who had previously been tipped for the job, Reuters reported, citing sources. Li’s appointment is a sign of Xi Jinping’s growing power as he was able to resist former President Jiang Zemin’s push to install the Politburo’s propaganda and information head Liu Yunshan, an anonymous source said. The mostly symbolic vice presidency would elevate Li’s political role and give him a say in foreign affairs. Li had been blocked from ascending to the more powerful Politburo Standing Committee by elder party members in November.