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Li Keqiang: former premier had fatal heart attack during swim in Shanghai, sources say
- Two sources say Li had previously had coronary artery bypass surgery
- His body has been flown back to Beijing, pending instructions on funeral
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Li Keqiang, who retired as China’s premier earlier this year, died of a heart attack at the age of 68 in Shanghai early on Friday morning.
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In an official obituary, state media hailed Li as “an outstanding leader of the party and the state” and described his death as a “huge loss” for China. It did not elaborate on the circumstances or exact cause of his death.
The sudden passing of the soft-spoken leader, whom many called “the people’s premier”, shocked the nation. Within hours of the news breaking, millions of people posted on China’s social media platforms to pay tribute.
Two sources told the South China Morning Post that Li had previously had coronary artery bypass surgery. Li retired from the party’s leadership, though he had yet to reach the official retirement age. He stepped down as premier in March this year.
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‘People’s Premier’: former Chinese premier Li Keqiang dies of a heart attack at age 68
‘People’s Premier’: former Chinese premier Li Keqiang dies of a heart attack at age 68
Li was visiting Shanghai this week. Two other sources said Li suffered a heart attack on Thursday while swimming at the Dongjiao State Guest Hotel where he was staying. He was rushed to nearby Shuguang Hospital by his personal security and healthcare staff. State media said Li was pronounced dead 10 minutes after midnight.
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