BEIJING (AP) — Over the weekend, China announced an investigation into the country’s top general amidst suspicions of serious breaches of discipline and law.
Gen. Zhang Youxia, second only to President Xi Jinping in military hierarchy, is being scrutinized along with Gen. Liu Zhenli, who oversees the Joint Staff Department and is also a member of the influential Central Military Commission.
This development drastically reshapes the commission, chaired by Xi, maintaining only one of its six members. Neil Thomas, a fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute’s Center for China Analysis, commented that this represents one of the most significant purges in the military leadership since the founding of the People’s Republic.
The implications of these changes on the military and broader Chinese governance are currently unclear. However, analysts suggest potential effects on China’s approach toward Taiwan, which it views as its territory.
Background of the Military Purge
The Defense Ministry’s announcement did not offer specific details regarding the alleged misconduct, emphasizing only the investigation’s focus on serious breaches. An editorial in the People’s Liberation Army Daily on Sunday reiterated China’s commitment to combat corruption, a key agenda of Xi Jinping since he took office.
Continuity of Anti-Corruption Campaigns
Rumors and unverified reports have circulated regarding the motives behind this shake-up, yet experts like K. Tristan Tang of the Pacific Forum stress that the core reasons behind Zhang’s removal may remain obscured. Nonetheless, the expectation is that Xi Jinping’s decision to target Zhang will lead to the emergence of significant issues.
Impact on Taiwan Relations
While some analysts believe these military changes may influence China’s strategy toward Taiwan, the specifics remain uncertain. China’s stance includes a threat to exert force over Taiwan, especially in the wake of increased military drills following significant U.S. arms sales to the island.
Future of the Military Commission
The military commission is now functioning with only one active member apart from Xi Jinping. The PLA’s Daily expressed intentions to rejuvenate the military amidst these developments, but it remains to be seen when the five vacant positions will be filled or if appointments will wait until the 2027 Communist Party Central Committee selection.
Long-Term Repercussions of Purges
While the immediate command structure may be destabilized, Thomas suggests this purge could ultimately strengthen military unity and capabilities over time. Tang adds that although the PLA’s readiness may not have been significantly disrupted, the purges highlight ongoing tensions within military ranks.
