Democracy is broadly rule by the people. A leader for life without a mechanism for removal is one of many signs of a government that is not ruled by the people systemically. A benevolent dictator may rule in-line with the majority but should they not, the people have no ability to address it and make change at that level.

Further, no one has addressed the initial points made. Xi removed the ability for the people he rules over to hold him accountable. This is one of many indicators of an autocrat or one who is moving toward being an autocrat in full.