Following Xi Jinping’s entry into his third term as the leader of the Chinese Communist Party, political pressure has intensified, and the economy has been on the decline, leading many to express pessimism about China’s future. However, some believe that extremes will lead to reversals, and the CCP regime may collapse without any warning. Experts have resurfaced past comments made by Zhang Xin, a well-known female Chinese billionaire who has since relocated to the United States, predicting a change in China around 2032 or even earlier. This timeline aligns with statements made by Chinese scholars in the past and resonates with recent predictions by Taiwanese fortune tellers.
Zhang Xin, the current wife of prominent Chinese real estate tycoon Pan Shiyi, made significant remarks during an interview with the American CBS News program “60 Minutes” in March 2013, which have recently garnered attention overseas. She asserted that corruption is rampant in China, with those in positions of power constantly seeking bribes. Zhang Xin emphasized that the Chinese people desire democracy more than anything else, contrary to the common misconception that their primary concerns revolve around basic needs such as food and shelter.
Furthermore, Zhang Xin pointed out that while the American political system has its flaws, people in China, located thousands of miles away, look up to it and aspire to it. She expressed optimism when asked about the possibility of democracy in China, stating that it could happen in less than 20 years.
Zhang Xin, born in Beijing in 1965 and naturalized as an American citizen around 2015, alongside her husband Pan Shiyi, has gradually shifted their business focus and family assets to the United States. Their company, SOHO China, was founded in 1995, facilitated by their marriage a year prior. Zhang Xin served as the CEO of SOHO China.
On May 23, Taiwan’s media outlet “Up Media” published an opinion piece by commentator Du Zheng titled “Signs of Change in Xi Jinping’s Reign,” referencing Zhang Xin’s earlier remarks.
According to Du Zheng, if Zhang Xin’s prediction from March 2013 holds true that China will embrace democracy around 2032, there remains less than seven years until that point. This projection appears to align with the current trends in China’s political landscape, offering a potential forecast for Xi Jinping’s timeline in power.
However, Du Zheng cautioned that the desire for democracy among the Chinese population is a broad term, encompassing embracing universal values such as freedom and human rights. The article noted a trend of elite individuals leaving China under Xi Jinping’s rule while others within the country await opportunities for political upheaval.
Examining Xi Jinping’s timeline in power, the article discussed key milestones such as his ascension to power during the 18th National Congress of the CCP in November 2012, his reelection at the 19th National Congress in 2017, and subsequent constitutional amendments allowing for extended terms. Du Zheng also referenced the insights of Professor Ren Jiantao from Tsinghua University, who forecasted a stagnant period during Xi’s rule.
Moreover, Taiwanese fortune tellers, including Zhou Yingjun and Teacher Xiaomeng, have made predictions about Xi Jinping’s future, suggesting challenges ahead for his leadership and potentially indicating a significant turning point for the CCP around 2032-2033.
Online commentators shared mixed opinions regarding the anticipated timeline for change in China, with some eager for an earlier downfall of the CCP, while others pointed out observed changes in Xi Jinping’s appearance over the years.
Du Zheng’s analysis raised questions about Xi’s lack of a clear successor, which could pose a crisis for the CCP regime, as international observers speculate on the future of Chinese governance. Some view Xi as a force hastening the CCP’s demise, while others foresee him as the last of the party’s leaders.
In conclusion, Du Zheng suggested multiple factors that could potentially cut short Xi Jinping’s term, including health issues related to alcoholism, aggressive actions toward Taiwan leading to unexpected consequences, and the ruthless nature of the CCP regime possibly triggering internal unrest or uprisings.