In a sweeping move to cleanse the ranks, Xi Jinping has removed Zhang Youxia, the highest-ranking general in China, amid allegations of "serious violations of discipline and law." This marks the fifth senior military official appointed by Xi to the Central Military Commission to be ousted since 2022, a part of the government's extensive campaign against corruption and disloyalty, as reported by the New York Times.
According to the Wall Street Journal, which cited insiders privy to discussions about the situation, Zhang Youxia is accused of leaking information concerning China's nuclear weapons program to the United States and accepting bribes. However, the WSJ suggests that the real motive behind these charges is to suppress Zhang's attempts to form political cliques.
Christopher K. Johnson, a former CIA analyst, told the NYT, "This action is unprecedented in the history of the Chinese military and signifies a complete overhaul of the top leadership." Zhang Youxia was second in command within the military apparatus, only surpassed by Xi himself.
Investigations Extend to Other High-Ranking Officials
General Liu Zhenli, who heads the Joint Staff Department of the army, is also under investigation. Xi is determined to implement a deep generational change to establish a cadre of untainted officers, according to Johnson.
The purge even extends to childhood friends, as demonstrated by the removal of Zhang Youxia, underscoring the limitless nature of Xi's anti-corruption fervor. Zhang, now 75, had been retained in his position beyond the typical retirement age due to his close ties with Xi, with their families having been acquainted since the revolutionary era.
A Legacy of Combat Experience
Among the few Chinese commanders with extensive combat experience, Zhang played a prominent role in the Sino-Vietnamese border conflict starting in 1979, which lasted for years. He had been a member of the Central Military Commission since 2017.
Implications of the Military Purge in China
Why was Zhang Youxia removed from his position?
Zhang Youxia was removed due to accusations of leaking information about China's nuclear weapons program to the United States and accepting bribes, although these charges may also be politically motivated to curb his influence.
Who is investigating General Liu Zhenli?
General Liu Zhenli is being investigated as part of the broader anti-corruption campaign led by Xi Jinping, targeting high-ranking military officials within the Central Military Commission.
What is the significance of this military purge?
This purge is significant as it demonstrates Xi Jinping's commitment to eradicating corruption and consolidating power within the military, even at the cost of removing long-time allies.