On Chinese TV, Deng Shows He’s Still in Charge
Paramount Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping appeared on state television Monday for the first time in a year, signaling his continued control.
Deng, 87, appeared to be in good health as he smiled and shook hands at a Lunar New Year reception in Shanghai for soldiers and civilians that was also attended by President Yang Shangkun.
Dressed in a dark gray Mao suit, Deng responded with smiles and waves to the applause of the guests and wagged his finger vigorously as he engaged one group in conversation.
His middle-aged daughter Deng Rong was constantly behind him, from time to time taking his arm to guide and support him.
Because he is officially retired from all posts, protocol would prevent Deng from making pronouncements on television and upstaging the current leaders.
Deng is still the supreme arbiter of power, and the state of his health is critical in the jockeying for position at the top of China’s government.
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