Xi Jinping's Detachment on Display Amid Himalayan Floods

In the wake of the devastating floods in the Himalayas, which resulted from a collapsing glacier and left over 1,100 people dead, the absence of Chinese President Xi Jinping has sparked significant concern about his disconnect from the populace he governs. Unlike his predecessors Jiang Zemin and Hu Jintao, who actively engaged with victims during national disasters, Xi has largely remained in the safety of Beijing.

The floods, which swept through regions of Tibet, have exposed not only the human toll but also Xi's growing isolation from the realities faced by ordinary citizens. Historically, Chinese leaders have endeavored to present themselves as relatable figures. For instance, Xi's notable visit to a steamed-bun restaurant in 2013 was heralded as a demonstration of his connection to the common people. Today, however, Xi's image has shifted dramatically, as he has consolidated more power than any leader since Mao Zedong.

As the current general secretary of the Communist Party, Xi's perceived role has evolved into that of a philosopher king, illustrating his grand vision through the doctrine of Xi Jinping Thought. His approach to governance increasingly resembles that of an emperor, focused on maintaining a facade of infallibility. According to Steve Tsang, director of the SOAS China Institute, Xi has abandoned any pretense of being one with the people, believing he operates above the fray of everyday struggles.

This detachment is further evident in Xi's handling of the flood crisis. Instead of visiting the disaster-stricken areas, he opted to manage the situation from afar, delegating responsibilities to others. This strategy not only minimizes his exposure to potential political fallout but also allows him to maintain a distance from the chaos on the ground. The Chinese government has tightly controlled information from the affected regions, with international journalists barred from Tibet, thus limiting external scrutiny.

The flood's aftermath highlights Xi's prioritization of managing public perception over direct engagement with the affected communities. As noted by the research firm Trivium, Xi's approach typically involves appearing long after the immediate crisis has been addressed, focusing instead on the recovery process. Such a stance underscores the reality that Xi regards the Himalayan communities as relatively unworthy of his direct attention, particularly given his administration's ongoing efforts to assimilate ethnic minorities into Han Chinese culture.

In a system where dissent is stifled, the true sentiments of the Chinese people regarding Xi's absence remain obscured. With social media heavily censored, public criticism is systematically eliminated. Yet, a mere visit to the flood-ravaged areas could have demonstrated a semblance of empathy and concern. As it stands, Xi's neglect of this opportunity may leave a lasting impression on those who are looking for a leader who is not only powerful but also present during their times of need.

Source: www.theatlantic.com