China’s military is facing significant changes as the country investigates General Zhang Youxia, a high-ranking officer and close ally of President Xi Jinping. The defense ministry has announced this probe over “grave violations of discipline and the law.” Details on the specific allegations are scarce, but such investigations often hint at corruption.
Zhang is not alone; General Liu Zhenli is also under investigation. This comes on the heels of last October’s major military crackdown, which saw nine generals expelled—a rare and dramatic action in recent decades.
At 75 years old, Zhang holds the position of vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), which oversees China’s armed forces. He has a rich military history, having joined the army in 1968 and possessing combat experience. His long tenure and close ties to Xi suggested that he enjoyed the president’s confidence. The current investigation raises questions about political stability at the top levels of the Chinese military.
Recent rumors had suggested trouble for Zhang and Liu, especially since they were absent from a prominent party event. These events have become crucial for assessing loyalty within the party and military. As one expert noted, such purges often target those deemed threats to leadership consolidation.
This anti-corruption drive isn’t new. Under Xi, there’s been a concerted effort to clean house in various sectors, with a recent focus on the military. Xi has labeled corruption as the biggest threat to the Communist Party, emphasizing that the struggle against it is complex and ongoing. While some argue these campaigns enhance governance, others see them as a way to eliminate political rivals.
The reshaping of the CMC is significant. Originally comprising seven members, it now counts only Xi and Zhang Shengmin as its leadership. This reduction reflects the intense scrutiny and possible reshuffling within the military’s hierarchy.
In a broader context, China’s military reforms and purges are not isolated incidents. They echo previous historical campaigns where leaders removed potential threats during times of uncertainty. With public sentiment shifting and rising scrutiny over military actions, these events will likely continue to influence China’s political landscape.
For more detailed insights into China’s military reforms, you can refer to BBC News for comprehensive coverage.
