After Chiang Kai-shek established his political regime , Chiang often exercised his power not pursuant to the official channels in order to manipulate his political power and to direct the diplomacy since his leadership position in the KMT was not yet secured and the central leadership was in the process of formation . In the diplomatic personnel placement , he underwent a transitional process from using cronies to the establishment of think tanks , and finally to the use of aides and staff . This process not only reveals Chiang's intention of moving towards dictatorship , but also manifests his exploration and efforts in improving governance efficiency , reforming administration , and enhancing the management of human resources . The final formation of aides and staff not only marked the establishment of Chiang's centralized leadership role , but also provided the institutional support on the diplomatic decision-making and personnel management under the wartime centralized power of leadership .