Beijing: The country watched live on television as former Chinese President Hu Jintao was unceremoniously led out of the Great Hall of the People during the closing ceremony of Communist Party’s congress here on Saturday.
Jintao, who was seated beside current President Xi Jinping, seemed reluctant to walk out initially before giving in.
A confused-looking Jintao was escorted out by a steward who held his arms.
The 79-year-old Jintao had brief exchanges with Xi and the premier Li Keqiang before leaving the Hall.
Watch the video shared on social media:
Early drama: Hu Jintao seen being led out soon after reporters are led into the main hall pic.twitter.com/pRffGZF60I
— Danson Cheong (@dansoncj) October 22, 2022
There has been no explanation so far for Jintao’s abrupt departure from the Great Hall of the People.
Jintao happens to be Jinping’s predecessor, having been President from 2003 to 2013.
Jinping is expected to be confirmed for a third term as general secretary of Communist Party on Sunday, paving the way for his third term as Chinese President.
A new Central Committee of 200 senior party officials was elected on Saturday, state media agency Xinhua reported.
