Chinese President Xi Jinping has made a rare public reference to a recent crackdown which saw the country's top military general removed. General Zhang Youxia, who was widely perceived as Xi's closest military ally, was ousted in January amid accusations of 'serious violations of discipline and law' — a term often linked to corruption. In a virtual address, Xi described the past year as 'unusual and extraordinary', asserting that the military had undergone significant disciplinary transformations in combatting corruption. His ongoing campaign against corruption has been criticized for potentially serving as a tool to eliminate political rivals.
In his remarks, Xi praised the People's Liberation Army (PLA) for effectively tackling various risks and challenges, stating that many personnel have undergone 'in-depth political rectification'. He emphasized the loyalty and capabilities of PLA troops, which he described as critical in maintaining party fidelity.
This address coincides with the Chinese New Year celebrations and marks the first occasion since 2022 where Xi mentioned corruption in his greetings, following significant purges that have decimated the Central Military Commission's leadership structure. Critics suggest that these purges, which have seen 14 generals removed or investigated in the last three years, may reflect deeper political power struggles within the military and party structures. Xi's comments come at a time when his campaign against corruption is crucial for maintaining party support and addressing internal concerns.
In his remarks, Xi praised the People's Liberation Army (PLA) for effectively tackling various risks and challenges, stating that many personnel have undergone 'in-depth political rectification'. He emphasized the loyalty and capabilities of PLA troops, which he described as critical in maintaining party fidelity.
This address coincides with the Chinese New Year celebrations and marks the first occasion since 2022 where Xi mentioned corruption in his greetings, following significant purges that have decimated the Central Military Commission's leadership structure. Critics suggest that these purges, which have seen 14 generals removed or investigated in the last three years, may reflect deeper political power struggles within the military and party structures. Xi's comments come at a time when his campaign against corruption is crucial for maintaining party support and addressing internal concerns.
