BEIJING (AP) – The Chinese military's top general, Zhang Youxia, is currently under investigation for suspected serious violations of discipline and law, as announced by the Defense Ministry on Saturday. Zhang serves as one of the two vice chairs of the Central Military Commission, which wields significant power within China's military hierarchy. His investigation marks a continuation of a long-standing purge of military officials within the country.
Analysts suggest that these purges are intended not only to reform the military but also to ensure unwavering loyalty to Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who is also the chair of the Central Military Commission. This initiative is part of a comprehensive anti-corruption campaign that has seen over 200,000 officials punished since Xi ascended to power in 2012. The investigations appear to be part of a clear strategy to consolidate power within the elite ranks of the military and governmental institutions.
In addition to Zhang, another member of the Central Military Commission, Liu Zhenli, has also come under investigation by the ruling Communist Party. Liu holds the position of chief of staff at the Joint Staff Department of the commission, which is the highest military authority in China. While the Defense Ministry's statement did not disclose specific details regarding the alleged misconduct, the developments underscore ongoing turbulence within the military leadership.
Zhang Youxia, born in 1948, has had a longstanding career with the People's Liberation Army, having joined the ranks in 1968. He comes from the ground forces and has risen through the military's hierarchy over decades. His age and extensive service highlight the significant position he holds within the military framework of China.
In the context of the purges, it is noteworthy that another vice chair of the commission, He Weidong, was expelled in October 2023 and was subsequently replaced by Zhang Shengmin. Moreover, in 2024, two former defense ministers were expelled due to corruption charges, reflecting a growing scrutiny concerning corruption within the military and political spheres.
On a broader scale, the Trump administration recently released a National Defense Strategy emphasizing the importance of acknowledging China as a military power that poses a significant challenge needing deterrence from dominating the United States or its allies. It articulated that achieving a "decent peace, on terms favorable to Americans but that China can also accept and live under, is possible." This statement indicates a shift in strategy towards dealing with China while underlining the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The purging of high-ranking military officials, including Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli, highlights the ongoing efforts by Xi Jinping's administration to reinforce both loyalty and discipline within the armed forces. This internal scrutiny may have significant implications for the structure and operation of China's military in the coming years, as the leadership works to address corruption and ensure a cohesive chain of command.
The situation remains dynamic, and further developments regarding the investigations of these high-ranking officials are expected to emerge. As China's military adjusts to these ongoing challenges, the broader implications for regional stability and international relations continue to loom large.
