Xi Dismantles the ‘New Gang of Four’ With Probe of Hu’s Aide

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s decision to investigate his predecessor’s top aide for corruption marks the downfall of the remaining “tiger” in a group that Communist Party cadres termed the “New Gang of Four.”

Ling Jihua, former chief of staff to retired president Hu Jintao, was the last member of the quartet who had long been in Xi’s sights, analysts said. The group -- which also included the former security chief, a rising Politburo member and a top general -- bears little similarity to the original Gang of Four who were convicted for treason after the death of Mao Zedong, yet they were considered impediments to Xi’s command.