Chinese Military Officials Under Investigation for Violations
Two senior Chinese military officials, including the highest-ranking PLA official Gen Zhang Youxia, are currently under investigation for serious violations of the ruling Communist Party’s discipline and laws, the Defence Ministry announced on Saturday.
Gen Zhang holds the prestigious position of first-ranking Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), which is the highest command of the Chinese military, led by President Xi Jinping.
As the highest-ranking uniformed officer in the Chinese military, Gen Zhang’s investigation has caused shockwaves throughout the military establishment.
Another official under investigation is General Liu Zhenli, a CMC member who serves as the chief of staff of the Joint Staff Department.
The Ministry of Defence revealed in a brief press release that the CPC Central Committee has decided to initiate an investigation into both Gen Zhang and Gen Liu.
Over the years, dozens of senior People’s Liberation Army (PLA) officers have faced consequences under an intensified anti-corruption campaign spearheaded by President Xi since he assumed power in 2012.
President Xi, currently serving his third term, launched the anti-graft campaign against both high-ranking and lower-level officials, resulting in the dismissal of two former defence ministers and numerous senior PLA officers.
Xi’s efforts to combat corruption have led to the expulsion of several prominent figures, including He Weidong, the second-ranked military official of the CMC, and Wang Renhua, head of the CMC’s Political and Legal Affairs Committee.
Xi’s firm stance against corruption has been widely recognized, with state media reporting that over a million officials, including high-ranking military personnel, have been penalized as a result of the anti-graft campaign.
Despite facing criticism, Xi has reiterated the importance of combating corruption, labeling it as the greatest threat to the party. He emphasized the complexity of the fight against corruption in an internal speech last year.
Xi’s relentless efforts to root out corruption not only demonstrate his commitment to good governance but also serve to strengthen his position within the party and the military.
It is clear that the anti-corruption campaign led by President Xi has had a significant impact on the Chinese political landscape, reshaping the dynamics within the party and the military.
