Unprecedented CCP shake-up: Xi's inner circle gets a jolt

In a first-of-its-kind move, Chinese President Xi Jinping has approved a surprise personnel shuffle within the Communist Party, switching the roles of two Politburo members—Li Ganjie and Shi Taifeng—according to the South China Morning Post. Both men now helm the other’s former departments in what analysts say is a strategic recalibration ahead of the 2027 party congress.

Why it matters

• This unprecedented job swap marks a break from long-standing norms in China's political hierarchy. The Organisation Department and the United Front Work Department—now under new leadership—are among the Communist Party’s most powerful levers of control, overseeing internal promotions and external influence campaigns, respectively.
• The reshuffle also reflects Xi’s broader strategy to eliminate potential rivals and reinforce his vision for China’s future. Xi’s anti-corruption campaign, a hallmark of his tenure, has disciplined millions of officials over the past decade, yet he continues to warn that graft remains the “biggest threat” to the CCP.

By targeting even loyalists, Xi sends a message that no one is above scrutiny, fostering a climate of fear and obedience that stifles dissent but risks bureaucratic paralysis at a time when China faces mounting economic and geopolitical pressures.

These developments have sparked debate about Xi’s long-term intentions and the stability of the CCP. While some see the reshuffle as a sign of strength, showcasing Xi’s ability to reshape the party at will, others interpret it as a reaction to growing internal resistance or dissatisfaction, whether from the party elite, the military, or the public.

The big picture
As per the SCMP report, Li Ganjie, 60, now heads the United Front Work Department. A technocrat with deep experience in nuclear safety and environmental policy, Li has seen a meteoric rise, making him the youngest member of the 24-man Politburo.

Shi Taifeng, 68, assumes control of the Organisation Department, putting him in charge of the opaque system of senior-level appointments. He is a long-time ally of Xi, having worked under him at the Central Party School.

What they're saying
“This personnel reshuffle appears to be an unusual one, as such exchanges have not occurred in the past,” said Deng Yuwen, former deputy editor of the Party School’s Study Times. He speculated the move was “preparation for the 21st party congress scheduled for 2027,” adding that Xi is likely positioning trusted allies for key roles.

Zoom in

• The United Front Work Department is a crucial part of the CCP’s “influence machine,” managing relationships with religious groups, ethnic minorities, overseas Chinese, and elites in Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.
• The Organisation Department, on the other hand, dictates who gets promoted within China’s massive political bureaucracy. Under Xi’s rule, its processes have become more secretive and loyalty-driven, especially during Chen Xi’s tenure—Xi’s college roommate and Li’s predecessor.

What’s next?
A broader wave of appointments is expected this year, particularly at the provincial and ministerial levels. This shuffle may foreshadow how Xi intends to shape the next Politburo line-up in 2027, potentially extending his influence far beyond a third term.

The bottom line
The Li-Shi swap underscores Xi Jinping’s relentless drive to consolidate power and shape a legacy-proof CCP. By redrawing the internal map of influence, Xi isn’t just tweaking roles—he’s rewriting the rules.