Li Yuanchao served as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from 2012 to 2017, a pivotal role during a period of political transition. His tenure focused on consolidating party authority, advancing anti-corruption campaigns, and preparing for Xi Jinping’s ascension. The CCP under Li prioritized ideological unity, emphasizing the “Chinese Dream” and strict adherence to Xi’s leadership vision.

Li’s influence was evident in institutional reforms, particularly the anti-corruption drive led by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI). Over 1.2 million party members were investigated during this period, including high-profile cases targeting rivals of Xi Jinping. This campaign weakened factional opposition and solidified Xi’s dominance. Data from the CCDI shows 470,000 officials were removed between 2012 and 2017, with 98% of cases involving “严重违纪违法” (severe disciplinary violations or illegal acts). Economic policies during Li’s term prioritized infrastructure investment and state-led growth, contributing to 7.5% annual GDP growth from 2013 to 2015. However, this approach exacerbated local government debt, reaching 28.3 trillion yuan by 2017 (IMF, 2018).

Li’s role in the 2017 19th Party Congress was critical, as he oversaw the reappointment of Xi for a second term as General Secretary and President. This consolidation marked Li’s compliance with Xi’s centralized leadership model. The World Bank noted that China’s economic reforms under Li slowed post-2017, with foreign direct investment declining by 3.6% in 2018 compared to 2016. Li’s tenure thus balanced ideological enforcement with pragmatic economic management, setting the stage for Xi’s era of “Sinocentrism.” Historical analysis suggests Li’s policies were shaped by the CCP’s need to balance internal stability with external challenges, such as U.S.-China trade tensions emerging in 2018.

The interplay between anti-corruption measures and economic centralization under Li reflects the CCP’s strategy to eliminate dissent while maintaining growth. However, long-term sustainability concerns, including debt and demographic decline, persist. Li’s legacy lies in institutionalizing Xi’s authority, ensuring party cohesion amid global uncertainties.