China's Communist Party to amend Constitution next month

China's ruling Communist Party is likley to amend its Constitution at a key national congress next month to accommodate President Xi Jinping's ideologies, state-media reported today.
The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee deliberated a draft amendment to the Constitution at a meeting which was presided over by party general secretary Xi, who is poised to get a second five-year term as the party leader.
Amending the constitution at the 19th CPC National Congress to be held on October 11 on the basis of the new situation and tasks, would promote the development of socialism with Chinese characteristics and party building, state-run Xinhua news agency quoted a statement as saying today.

It said the amendments should include the "key theories and strategic thoughts" presented by a work report to be delivered at the 19th CPC National Congress but did not provide details.
Xi, 64, has been highlighting "four Comprehensives", which include China "comprehensively" building a moderately prosperous society and strengthening reforms, rule of law and party discipline.
Speculation is rife that the party rules of retirement for leaders after 65 will be amended to accommodate Xi's confidantes in key posts.

The amended Constitution should fully represent the latest sensitisation of Marxism, the new governance concepts, thoughts and strategies of the CPC Central Committee since the 18th CPC National Congress, as well as the fresh experiences in adhering to and strengthening party leadership, and in strict party governance, according to the statement.

It also noted that the amendment should make the CPC more vigorous, stronger and enable it to keep a close connection with the people.
The draft amendment will be submitted to the seventh plenary meeting of the 18th CPC Central Committee, which will be held on October 11.
The CPC Constitution was last amended in 2012.