The CCP CC General Office in a circular issued on May 27, instructed that the Party collective should have absolute control over promotions, taking away decision-making power from individuals. The rules explicitly prohibit leading cadres from contravening the decisions of the Party committee.

It will also be harder for leading cadres to promote their protégés. Approval from a superior Organization Department is now needed for any proposed promotions by leading cadres that: are made just before retirement; concern their closest staff (i.e. secretaries); and concern relatives under their purview.

(Comment: It appears to be a move by Xi Jinping to build his own clique of loyalists and break up the numerous cliques within the Party.)