Actually it matter to Zhang Gaoli. Now, you should remember several things :
1. It is closer to the end of Xi Jinping 2nd term. And there is a rumor about Xi to continue on his 3rd term.
2. Despite retired, Zhang Gaoli should be an influental person in CPC inner circle. He must have many followers and people who respect him. Remember, active CPC officials can be a king, but a retired influential one can become a king maker.
3. Now look back at the disaster of China energy crisis some time ago. And then Evergrande. Don't you remember that China aim for clean energy and abandon coal started with Xi's speech? And how it became so chaotic?
4. Now, why Peng Shuai spread her affair with Zhang Gaoli in social media? She should know the risk of doing so. Then why she dares to publish Zhang's secret affair to the internet? She may has some backer who guarantee her safety.
5. Now, even IF CPC cut the social media, but the deed has been done. I'm sure that all CPC most important people know about this affair, and it will affect Zhang Gaoli's influence and power. He may avoid punishment. But this rumor surely has become a stain in his reputation in CPC.
My feeling said that there is something going on that has connection with the next CPC presidential election, and Xi's plan to continue with his third term.
