Li Keqiang dies at 68: Rise and fall of former Chinese premier political career​

Li Keqiang, the former Premier of China, has sadly passed away at the age of 68, according to reports from State Media. He served as the second most influential figure within the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party until his retirement just the previous year. Despite his notable ascent through the party's ranks, Li did not have a solid power base to rely upon. There was even a time when he was considered as a potential candidate for the top position of the presidency. (Photo Credit - AP)

Educated as an economist, Li initially was responsible for managing China's extensive economy. As his tenure progressed, he experienced himself overshadowed, particularly as Chinese President Xi Jinping solidified his control. By the conclusion of Li's tenure, he stood as the sole high-ranking official not directly affiliated with President Xi's inner circle of trusted associates. (Photo Credit - AP)

Graduated from the prestigious Peking University, Li was renowned for his practical approach to economic policies. His primary focus was on reducing income inequality and ensuring access to affordable housing for the general population. (Photo Credit - AP)

The latter phase of Li's time tenure was dominated by China's zero-Covid policy. At the Covid-19 peak, Li openly recognized the considerable pressure it exerted on the economy and persuaded officials to find a middle ground between enforcing restrictions and sustaining economic growth. Despite his appeals for a balanced approach, when officials had to decide between safeguarding the economy and adhering to President Xi's stringent zero-Covid measures, the decision became evident. (Photo Credit - AP)

Born in Anhui province of eastern China, Li's early life was marked by the challenges of agricultural labor during the turbulent Cultural Revolution. His educational path at Peking University introduced him to ardent proponents of democratic ideals, some of whom would later become outspoken critics of the ruling party's administration. (Photo Credit - AP)

Having a strong command on English, Li was significantly impacted by the transformative era led by Deng Xiaoping, which reached a critical juncture with the tragic events of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests. (Photo Credit - AP)

After completing his academic endeavors, Li joined the Communist Party's Youth League,paving the way for his ascent to more prominent political positions. He had a Master's degree in Law and a PhD in Economics, with guidance from Professor Li Yining, a renowned advocate of market-oriented reforms. (Photo Credit - AP)

Li's political career was not without its share of controversy. During his time as a provincial leader in Henan, he faced allegations related to an AIDS scandal. Nevertheless, he persevered and continued to advance through the ranks, later assuming the role of the party chief in Liaoning, a province in the midst of a significant industrial transformation. (Photo Credit - AP)