Former Chinese President Hu Jintao was escorted this Saturday during the closing ceremony of the Communist Party Congress, journalists from Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported.
Appearing weakened, the 79-year-old, who served as China’s president from 2003 to 2013, was pressured by staff to get up from his seat next to Xi Jinping in the front row of the People’s Palace.
At first reluctant, he appears to argue before being taken by the arm by an employee who leads him to the exit. Hu Jintao has a final brief exchange with Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang, both of whom he pats on the shoulder.
This unusual outing by the former president was not immediately explained or reported by state media.
Third term in sight for Xi Jinping
Hu Jintao had surprised at the opening of the congress last Sunday by appearing aged, his hair now completely white.
Xi Jinping, 69, is due to get a third term as party general secretary this weekend, guaranteeing him an unprecedented third presidential term next March.
The new Central Committee, a kind of party parliament with about 200 members, was elected this Saturday shortly after 11:00 local time (5:00 French time), according to the official New China agency, which has not yet revealed His composition.
Source: BFM TV
