Zhu Rongji's death adds new dimension to China's remembrance of Jiang Zemin

The recent passing of former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji, shortly before the centenary of former President Jiang Zemin's birth, has intensified China's high-profile remembrance of a pivotal era in the nation's reform and opening. Analysts believe this dual commemoration brings renewed attention to the period from 1998 to 2003, when Jiang and Zhu served together at the highest levels of leadership.

Zhu died on August 12 at age 97, just five days before Jiang's 100th birthday. Beijing is marking Jiang's centenary with extensive commemorative activities, including a 12-part documentary series on his political life and a major assembly at the Great Hall of the People, where President Xi Jinping is expected to deliver a speech. National flags will be flown at half-mast across key government sites and diplomatic missions to honor Zhu.

"The image of Jiang and Zhu as decisive problem-solvers will be more prominently constructed and promoted," said Hou Yichao, a researcher of China's political economy. Hou suggests this narrative aligns with the current leadership's emphasis on confronting challenges and driving change. Zhu's reputation for implementing tough economic reforms and overcoming entrenched obstacles lends particular relevance to his legacy today.

Analysts note that Beijing's framing of the Jiang-Zhu era serves a dual purpose. It celebrates past achievements in reform while subtly positioning President Xi Jinping's current leadership as essential for tackling the complex problems that have arisen from China's rapid economic transformation. This approach aims to legitimize the present leadership by drawing parallels with, and addressing perceived shortcomings of, a significant period in China's modern history.

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The image of Jiang and Zhu as decisive problem-solvers will be more prominently constructed and promoted.