Xi Jinping has been given another five-year term as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, extending his rule beyond the traditional two-term limit.
Xi's position as China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong was solidified as the party's Politburo Standing Committee was unveiled, stacked with loyalists hand-picked by Xi. Commentators note the lineup "shows he prizes loyalty over expertise and experience".
The exclusion of Premier Li Keqiang from the leadership committee suggests that representation for other factions is no longer welcome at the top.
The two-term limit for Communist Party leaders was brought in following Mao's 30-year rule, however, Xi's amendment to the party constitution to eliminate the term limit has sparked concern about his intentions.
There is speculation that his power grab may lead to lifetime ruling.
Critics in the West worry this will lead to toughening China's policy towards democracy and human rights abuses, as well as a continuation of the confrontational approach with the United States.
Xi's third term also means he is likely to be re-appointed as president in March.
Observers are closely watching how this move will impact the country's internal politics and economic policies over the next five years.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies has predicted that under Xi, China is likely to remain a one-party state with tighter control over society and the economy, and that tensions with the US will continue to grow.