What if the chinese empire survived?

I definitely agree with that assessment. Since Keding was educated in Germany lets say the position is Chancellor. Similar to Imperial Germany.

I imagine modernization and reform will be a priority once Yuan Shikai dies.

Emperor not elected but sits with the approval of the Army providing that the Army gets PAID. National elections for thoroughly supervised parties, and the winner is invited to form the government so long as nobody tries to remove the Emperor from his position as supreme authority in matters of WAR, PEACE, and the embodiment of the NATIONAL WILL.
 
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