When you have worked for AnnaPurna Consulting for a long time, people often assume you know the inside story behind the tales of intrigue that dominate the headlines. Just occasionally you do, but cannot say that you do. When you don’t, people nevertheless think you really do and assume you are just being discreet. Better to be regarded as an international man of mystery, I suppose, than just plain clueless.

As for the Bo Xilai case in China, I genuinely don’t have a clue what is happening. There is lots of speculation in the press about what may be going on but my sense is that those who do understand the whole story are remaining tight lipped. Even if the details of who did what to whom when are thin on the ground, the case offers a fascinating glimpse into the workings of China’s political elite. [Read more…]