I think, and I reiterate think the deal has already been made. Why is Xi consolidating so much power? Trump made a deal with him. We are far and above China’s largest market. Their economy has sputtered a bit in the last few years and if Trump imposes any restrictions that house of top down cards crumbles. It is why I asked about who were ousted. Xi is only 64. Hardly an old school Chinese hegemonic leader. I honestly think, and I reiterate think that Xi came away from Mar A Lago with an I scratch your back you scratch mine deal.
“Why is Xi consolidating so much power?”
Because he can.
Panda-face is a Mao wannabe, complete with his own little book of sayings. His grab was likely in the works long before he met with DJT. Xi had a reputation of extreme brutality before his rise, so his consolidation of power should not be surprising. As to who was ousted, likely anybody who had their own little fiefdom - including some whose domains included NoKo.