The elite of China's ruling Communist Party will convene next week a long-awaited conclave that has been shrouded in secrecy, with pundits speculating about a possible political promotion within the ranks that may further cement President Xi Jinping's grip on power.

Mr Xi, who doubles as party and military chief, will kick off the long-delayed plenum on Monday at the People's Liberation Army-run Jingxi Hotel, which is off limits to ordinary people, The Straits Times has learnt.