China's defence ministry has announced an investigation into General Zhang Youxia, the nation's highest-ranking general, for what it described as 'grave violations of discipline and the law'. The statement offered no specifics regarding the allegations against Zhang, who is perceived as a close ally to President Xi Jinping and a significant figure in China's military hierarchy. Typically, allegations of this nature in China imply potential corruption.
Alongside Zhang, General Liu Zhenli has also been placed under investigation. This action follows a significant crackdown in October, which led to the expulsion of nine senior generals, marking one of the most extensive military purges in decades.
At 75, Zhang serves as vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission, the influential body that oversees the Chinese armed forces and is led by President Xi. Zhang is notable for his history within the army, having joined in 1968, and for being one of the few leaders with combat experience. His recent inquiry has raised eyebrows particularly due to his absence from prominent party events, which has fueled speculation of impending investigations.
Since Xi Jinping's ascendancy to power, he has initiated multiple anti-corruption campaigns, which have recently zeroed in on military leadership, reflecting his view that corruption is a major threat to the Communist Party's stability. Critics argue these campaigns are also a tactic to eliminate political threats.
The ongoing probes involving Zhang and Liu have resulted in a significant reduction in the Central Military Commission's ranks, now comprising only two known members: Xi himself and Zhang Shengmin, who oversees military discipline.
Alongside Zhang, General Liu Zhenli has also been placed under investigation. This action follows a significant crackdown in October, which led to the expulsion of nine senior generals, marking one of the most extensive military purges in decades.
At 75, Zhang serves as vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission, the influential body that oversees the Chinese armed forces and is led by President Xi. Zhang is notable for his history within the army, having joined in 1968, and for being one of the few leaders with combat experience. His recent inquiry has raised eyebrows particularly due to his absence from prominent party events, which has fueled speculation of impending investigations.
Since Xi Jinping's ascendancy to power, he has initiated multiple anti-corruption campaigns, which have recently zeroed in on military leadership, reflecting his view that corruption is a major threat to the Communist Party's stability. Critics argue these campaigns are also a tactic to eliminate political threats.
The ongoing probes involving Zhang and Liu have resulted in a significant reduction in the Central Military Commission's ranks, now comprising only two known members: Xi himself and Zhang Shengmin, who oversees military discipline.
