The Chinese government announced on Saturday that investigators have targeted the senior vice chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) for “serious violations of discipline.” This phrase serves as the state’s standard euphemism for high-level corruption and bribery.
This development signals a significant escalation in President Xi Jinping’s decade-long campaign to eliminate graft within the Communist Party. Consequently, the defense ministry confirmed that authorities have initiated formal reviews into Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli.
Zhang Youxia, 75, currently serves as China’s highest-ranked general and holds a critical seat on the 24-member Politburo. Furthermore, he shares his leadership role with General Zhang Shengmin, though the two men share no familial relation.
The second official, 61-year-old Liu Zhenli, leads the joint staff department responsible for the military’s combat planning and operations. Rumors regarding their status intensified earlier this week when both men missed a high-profile meeting chaired by President Xi.
Strengthening Political Control
President Xi Jinping has repeatedly labeled corruption as the single greatest threat to the survival of the Communist Party. While supporters argue these probes ensure clean governance, critics suggest the President utilizes these purges to remove potential political rivals.
Meanwhile, the military continues to face a broader structural cleansing within its secretive rocket force and joint departments. Authorities recently expelled nine military officials in October as part of this ongoing effort to secure absolute loyalty.
The current investigation follows a series of high-profile removals that have hollowed out the military’s senior leadership ranks. For instance, Beijing recently xpelled former defense ministers Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe for alleged bribery and other serious legal offenses.
Additionally, the ministry confirmed the expulsion of He Weidong and Miao Hua, who previously held vital positions in political work. Because the fight against corruption remains grave and complex, experts expect more announcements as the party tightens its grip.
