China’s Ministry of Defense has announced an investigation into General Zhang Youxia, the country’s highest-ranking military official, citing “grave violations of discipline and the law.” This move has raised eyebrows, as Zhang has long been viewed as a key ally of President Xi Jinping, a relationship that has now come under scrutiny.
Investigations amidst military shakeup
Details surrounding the allegations against General Zhang remain sparse, which is typical in cases where accusations often hint at corruption. Alongside Zhang, General Liu Zhenli is also under investigation, marking a significant escalation in a series of military purges that began earlier this year. In October, nine high-ranking generals were expelled, signaling one of the most extensive crackdowns on the Chinese military in decades.
Zhang Youxia, who is 75 years old, serves as the vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), the body that oversees military operations under President Xi’s leadership. His position on the Politburo, the Communist Party’s highest decision-making group, further underscores his influence. Zhang, whose father was among the founding generals of the Communist Party, joined the army in 1968 and is noted for being one of the few senior leaders with actual combat experience. His continued tenure beyond the typical retirement age suggested a strong level of trust from Xi until now.
Corruption crackdown and political implications
The announcement of the investigations came shortly after speculation emerged regarding Zhang and Liu’s absence from a significant party event in December, prompting discussions about their potential legal troubles. President Xi has been criticized for utilizing anti-corruption campaigns as a means to eliminate political adversaries. Since assuming power, he has initiated numerous anti-corruption drives, particularly targeting military institutions.
“Corruption remains the biggest threat to the Communist Party and the fight against it remains grave and complex,”
President Xi stated in a recent address. While supporters of his campaign argue it fosters better governance, detractors assert that it serves as a pretext for political purges. Following the investigations into Zhang and Liu, the Central Military Commission’s membership has dwindled from its original seven members to just two: Xi himself and Zhang Shengmin, who oversees military discipline.