Recent party plenums and anti-corruption campaigns have reinforced Xi Jinping’s authority within the Chinese Communist Party, with record expulsions of senior officials—including Politburo and military figures—interpreted as efforts to eliminate potential rivals and enforce loyalty ahead of the 21st Party Congress scheduled for the second half of 2027. State media continue to emphasize unity around Xi as the party core, while analysts note the absence of any designated successor or visible internal opposition capable of forcing an early exit. Trader consensus at 98% “No” aligns with this pattern of consolidated control and institutional preparation for a fourth term. Unforeseen developments such as abrupt health complications, major external crises, or sudden elite realignments remain the primary factors that could still alter the outcome before 2027.