Former China Premier Li Keqiang dies at 68

Former Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has tragically passed away at the age of 68, as confirmed by China Central Television (CCTV). Li, who had played a prominent role in Chinese politics, had been the second-most powerful figure in the Chinese Communist Party until his retirement in 2022.

Li was residing in Shanghai when he experienced a sudden and fatal heart attack on Thursday, as reported by state media sources. Despite strenuous efforts to revive him, Li Keqiang passed away ten minutes past midnight on Friday, marking the end of an era in Chinese politics.

An accomplished economist, Li initially held a key role in managing China’s economy. However, analysts noted that as Chinese President Xi Jinping consolidated his authority, Li’s influence appeared to wane in the latter part of his political career.