The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has expelled two former defence ministers, Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe, in a significant anti-corruption move. The official news agency Xinhua reported the expulsions on Thursday, underscoring the party’s ongoing efforts to crack down on corruption within its ranks.
This development comes at a time of escalating tensions between China and the United States, particularly regarding the situation in Taiwan.
Li Shangfu, who was removed from his position in October 2023 after mysteriously disappearing from public view for nearly two months, has been accused of serious violations of party discipline and the law.
His case has been referred to military prosecutors, potentially leading to a trial that could result in a life sentence. The CCP's Politburo, a senior leadership body, reviewed Li’s status and concluded that he had "betrayed his original mission and lost his party spirit and principles," according to state broadcaster CCTV.
The accusations against Li are severe. He is alleged to have "seriously polluted the political environment and industrial ethos in the field of military equipment," causing significant damage to national defence and military construction.
Additionally, Li is accused of bribery, specifically of using his position to seek benefits for others in exchange for substantial sums of money and giving money to others to secure inappropriate benefits.
Wei Fenghe, who retired as defence minister in 2023 after a five-year tenure, faces similar accusations. He is alleged to have accepted money and gifts in violation of the rules, using his position to benefit others and receiving money and valuables in return. Wei’s case has also been referred to military prosecutors.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, who leads the CCP and the armed forces as chairman of the Central Military Commission, has prioritised the fight against corruption since coming to power over a decade ago.
However, some insiders suggest that the ongoing purges target officers suspected of disloyalty or connections with external forces. High-ranking military officers in China enjoy significant privileges and hold influential positions within the political landscape.
This anti-corruption campaign reflects Xi’s broader strategy to consolidate power and ensure loyalty within the CCP and the military. The timing of these expulsions, amid rising geopolitical tensions and upcoming significant CCP meetings, highlights the party’s resolve to maintain strict internal discipline.
Meanwhile, the CCP is preparing for a crucial meeting on July 15-18 to discuss future strategies amid increasing geopolitical challenges, including tariff hikes by the US and the European Union. This meeting is expected to shape the party's approach to addressing both internal and external pressures in the coming years.
The expulsion of Li and Wei marks a notable chapter in Xi’s anti-corruption campaign, demonstrating the CCP's commitment to rooting out corruption and reinforcing party discipline, even at the highest levels of government and the military.
As China navigates complex international relations and internal challenges, the outcomes of these actions and forthcoming discussions will be pivotal in shaping the country's political and strategic direction.
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