Xi Says ‘Inevitable’ for Ruling Party to Have Internal Conflicts

Chinese President Xi Jinping dismissed internal divisions within the ruling Communist Party as unavoidable, while calling for greater efforts to instill discipline, according to newly disclosed remarks he made at an anti-graft meeting in January.

“Changes in the external environment and in the party membership will inevitably lead to various conflicts and problems within the party,” Xi said at the annual huddle of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection. “It is necessary to eliminate all kinds of negative influences in a timely manner with the courage of turning the blade inward to ensure that the party is always full of vigor and vitality.”