Chapter 1272: Chapter 1227: The Upstart Nie Zhenbang Chapter 1272: Chapter 1227: The Upstart Nie Zhenbang At this moment, one could quite evidently sense the various changes in Wang Suzhou. From Wang Suzhou’s background, in actuality, he was in an awkward position. The seasoned Minister of the Organization Department of the Central Committee. At this year’s two sessions, he had not been able to advance further into that particular echelon, which was indisputably a failure. Yet Wang Suzhou could face it calmly, and simply this resilience alone was enough to command admiration.

Now, with Nie Zhenbang entering this threshold, everyone knew that the future number three leader was bound to be in Nie Zhenbang’s pocket. Once at this level, there were fewer variables. In the second half of the year, after being supplemented into the core of Jiuding, there would be even less uncertainty.

Therefore, Wang Suzhou’s attitude had changed accordingly. Listening to Nie Zhenbang’s words, Wang Suzhou said with a smile, “Zhenbang, to speak like that, you’re really slapping me in the face. Now, you are a national leader.”

Nie Zhenbang laughed heartily. At this time, to still exhibit such an indifferent and composed demeanor would no longer be modesty but an act.

Then, smiling, he said, “Minister Suzhou, you are a senior. No matter what, the tradition of respecting the elderly and loving the young still exists. What I said is not a problem. No matter what position one holds, obeying the organization’s decisions and arrangements is a necessary quality for every party member.”

With that, Nie Zhenbang continued, “Minister Suzhou, this way please.”

He ushered Wang Suzhou into his own room. A business suite consisting of a living room and a bedroom, the outside room was about twenty square meters in size, serving as a meeting area.

After both were seated, Xia Gang served Wang Suzhou and Nie Zhenbang hot tea. Contemplating for a moment, Wang Suzhou slowly said, “Comrade Zhenbang, I’ve come here this time, entrusted by the central leadership, specifically to meet with you. After your transfer to the State Council, the position in Longxi Province has been vacated. The leaders’ intention is that, as the former head of Longxi Province, you have the most say in the choice of your successor. Thus, I am here primarily to congratulate you, and also to seek your opinion.”

Reaching this point, Wang Suzhou expressed his deep feelings, “With the progression of society and the development of the times, the system of selection and appointment of party and government leaders is becoming more and more mature, more and more standardized. In the past, the primary considerations were political integrity and discipline; now, although these are still very important, they have become secondary considerations. Policy continuity, economic developmental coherence, and officials’ capabilities and qualities are becoming increasingly important.”

The implication of Wang Suzhou was clear to Nie Zhenbang; simply put, it was the most immediate change brought by a rise in status. Previously, when a top official was transferred, the organization would typically consult the predecessor during its discussions. This was customary, after all, having been a top leader, one would be more familiar with local conditions and have a deeper understanding of local cadres. One could provide certain references for the organization’s selection process.

However, consultation was just that, consultation. At times, the higher-ups might consider this opinion and weigh and arrange based on the predecessor’s recommendation, but the final decision still rested with them.

Now, Nie Zhenbang’s situation was different. What Wang Suzhou mentioned was seeking opinions, and though it differed by only one word from consultation, the meaning was entirely different. At this moment, Nie Zhenbang’s words could very likely directly determine the candidate for the secretary of the Longxi Provincial Party Committee.

Just now, Wang Suzhou’s words clarified the intention: Longxi’s policies had just started; the three major projects had only just been launched. Nie Zhenbang’s transfer at this juncture would undoubtedly have a profound impact on Longxi Province. What the successor would do was critical. The central leadership’s intention had been conveyed–to ensure the continuity of Longxi’s policies; the top leader of Longxi Province was to be recommended by you, Nie Zhenbang. By doing so, it would ensure to the greatest extent that Longxi’s policies would be well implemented.

Of course, this was also giving Nie Zhenbang an opportunity to arrange his loyal subordinates. At this level, it was imperative for Nie Zhenbang to have a few loyal subordinates below. Without people beneath you, you’re like rootless duckweed, and lack substance. The central government’s action was undoubtedly giving Nie Zhenbang an opportunity.

Facing this issue, Nie Zhenbang also began to ponder deeply. From Longxi Province’s perspective, Liu Zhentao was undoubtedly the most suitable.

First of all, concerning the character of the person, Liu Zhentao, he was experienced in handling affairs and had been very respectful during their cooperation. This alone was enough to show that Liu Zhentao knew how to conduct himself. Given the current situation, Nie Zhenbang had risen, not retired. As such, even if Liu Zhentao became the top leader, he would not change policies overnight, especially with Nie Zhenbang watching from above.

Another point was Liu Zhentao’s own good nature. He had fully supported the Lingxiao Coal Mine issue, showing fearlessness; later, in the province-wide promotion of Sand Control Project No. 5. Despite the provincial finance’s difficulties, Liu Zhentao still gritted his teeth in support. Although this was partly due to Nie Zhenbang’s influence, it was evident that Liu Zhentao cared for the people.

Lastly, on Nie Zhenbang’s three major projects, right from the planning stage, Liu Zhentao had been involved throughout. Liu Zhentao was very suitable considering his familiarity with the major projects and the transformation of the Ancient City Slum, as well as with the leaders of various cities within the province.

As for Wang Benchang, he was not even in Nie Zhenbang’s consideration. Although Wang Benchang had expressed support for Nie Zhenbang some time ago, Nie Zhenbang was very clear that Wang Benchang was not someone he could control.

Additionally, Luo Qiuliang, Zhang Fangwen, and others can be trusted, but their qualifications are still somewhat lacking for their current positions as the Head of the Provincial Party Committee Organization Department and the Secretary of the Ancient City Municipal Party Committee. Being promoted to a vice secretary or an executive vice governor would still be acceptable, but it would be too great of a leap for them to become the top leader unless a certain situation occurred where the secretary, governor, vice secretary, and executive vice governor all ran into problems.

Even so, the possibility of a cadre being parachuted in from above is greater than the chance of them taking up the role.

Another suitable candidate is Lin Mohan from Liaodong, whom I personally guided step by step from Wanghai City. Now in his fifties, and currently serving as the governor of Liaodong, transferring to Longxi would be entirely appropriate for him.

However, this move is also carefully considered by Nie Zhenbang. Although Lin Mohan is suitable, transferring from Liaodong to Longxi would not only cause dissatisfaction for Liu Zhentao but his family clan would have grievances, and grievances mean resistance. This would amount to picking up sesame seeds and losing the watermelon.

Wang Suzhou, smiling, looked at Nie Zhenbang and said, “Comrade Zhenbang, is there something bothering you?”

Listening to Wang Suzhou’s words, Nie Zhenbang also smiled and said, “Minister Suzhou, to be frank, this matter is indeed quite difficult to decide. The main issue is that our cadres are becoming increasingly excellent. There are no obvious gaps. Anyone could step up. That’s where the difficulty lies.”

After pondering for a moment, Nie Zhenbang spoke earnestly, “Minister Suzhou, my view still leans towards Comrade Liu Zhentao taking over my position.”

What followed was Nie Zhenbang’s evaluation of Liu Zhentao. There is a common saying among the folk that while happiness is the same, misfortune comes in many forms.

Similarly, in the system, the suitable reasons are all quite similar: young and strong, educated, capable, outstanding work, obedient to organizational arrangements, etc. As for finding fault, there is no point in doing so, for no one is perfect, and no one is a saint; flaws can be found in everyone.

After speaking about the most important matters, Nie Zhenbang thought for a moment and said, “As for the succession of the governor, my suggestion is to recommend Comrade Wang Benchang for the position. I propose that Comrade Luo Qiuliang take on the role of Deputy Party Secretary. For the rest, I don’t have many opinions.”

Wang Suzhou was listening very attentively, at least on the surface, he appeared to be listening carefully. After Nie Zhenbang finished speaking, Wang Suzhou nodded and said, “Zhenbang, your opinion is something I believe the organization will definitely consider seriously. I will also convey your views to the organization. Do you have any thoughts regarding your own arrangements?”

When it came to himself, Nie Zhenbang pondered for a moment, then slowly said, “Comrade Wang Jian, the security secretary, is really quite outstanding in his professional abilities and his military qualities are also very impressive. I am very satisfied with his work. Additionally, regarding the confidential secretaries, the current working secretary, Comrade Xia Gang, is a bit young, just over thirty. However, he is very steady and mature in all aspects. He has been very handily employed. For this matter, I hope that I can take both of them with me. As for the life secretary and health care physician, I don’t think it’s necessary, considering I am still young.”

“Haha, being young isn’t the key point. Now that you’ve reached this level and status, such an arrangement is very normal. Everyone does the same, so it wouldn’t be good for you to be an exception. I think we’ll settle the matter this way.”

Saying this, Wang Suzhou had already stood up, extending his hand and said, “Brother Zhenbang, I estimate that you’ll be notified about the Longxi Province situation in the next few days. Then, we can head to Longxi together to handle the work transition and the announcement of personnel changes.”

Nie Zhenbang also extended his hand and shook hands with Wang Suzhou, saying, “Alright, Minister Suzhou, it just so happens that today the Longxi Province Delegation is returning to Longxi, so I’ll just wait for you there.”

After personally escorting Wang Suzhou to the elevator door, Nie Zhenbang then turned back with Liu Zhentao. He looked at Liu Zhentao next to him and smiled, saying, “Secretary Zhentao, congratulations in advance. From now on, the work in Longxi will depend on you to carry the burden.”

The reason Nie Zhenbang said this openly was that he had his own deeper considerations. On one hand, it was to make Liu Zhentao aware that this favor was significant. On the other hand, it was also a reminder to Liu Zhentao.

Liu Zhentao was somewhat astonished, and when he heard these words, he was stunned for a moment, but his heart started to get excited. At last, he was taking this step forward. (To be continued. If you enjoy this work, you are welcomed to support it by voting for it and by purchasing monthly passes on . Your support is my greatest motivation.)