Xi Jinping has been named secretary of the Shanghai Communist Party of China Municipal Committee, which makes him the number one political figure in Shanghai. Last year, Chen Liangyu was dismissed from the position following a corruption scandal.
Xi was born in 1953 to Xi Zhongxun, one the Chinese Communist Party's founding fathers. Xi is thus considered a princeling, as are all the sons and daughters of politically influential leaders in China. His background has provided him with the opportunity to move up in Chinese politics.
Prior to this position, Xi served as party secretary of the province Zhejiang. He has developed a reputation for being tough on corruption and for favoring economic and market reform. He helped to turn Zhejiang into one of the most economically successful provinces in China.
At least three princelings are being considered for a spot in the Politburo, but Xi is seen as having the best chance, mainly due to his father's political background.
Xi will have the support of President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao in running Shanghai. Hu and Wen are expected to continue in their positions until 2012, and Xi will face heavy competition in gaining a top job from other princelings such as Commerce Minister Bo Xilai and party official Liu Yandong.
