China Expels Two Top-Ranked Generals From Military In Graft Probe

China has ousted two of its top-ranking generals, He Weidong and Miao Hua, as part of an extensive anti-corruption initiative that continues to transform the nation’s military and political leadership. This development occurs just days before a significant Communist Party gathering in Beijing centered on long-term economic planning.

In a statement issued on Friday, October 17, by defence ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang, He Weidong, vice chairman of the influential Central Military Commission (CMC), was listed among nine senior military officials removed for “seriously violating discipline.” He had not appeared in public since March, fueling speculation about his status. Zhang did not provide details on He’s current location.

Miao Hua, the former director of the military’s political work department, was also expelled. State media confirmed that Miao had already been officially relieved of his duties in June. Eight of the nine officials were also stripped of their Communist Party membership, having previously held positions on its prestigious Central Committee.

Zhang emphasized that the expulsions underscored the leadership’s commitment to combating corruption:

“The severe punishment of He Weidong, Miao Hua, and others once again demonstrates the Party Central Committee and the CMC’s unwavering resolve to persevere in the fight against corruption,” he declared.

He further noted that the recent crackdown marks a “significant achievement” in the ongoing anti-graft campaign, which he said has “contributed to a more pure, consolidated, cohesive and combat-ready People’s Army.”

Since assuming power in 2012, President Xi Jinping has prioritized eradicating corruption as a hallmark of his leadership, labeling graft as “the biggest threat to the Communist Party.” While proponents argue the campaign has bolstered party discipline and accountability, detractors contend it has also been a tool for Xi to strengthen his personal authority and eliminate political adversaries.

The military has been a key target of the anti-corruption efforts. In 2023, former defence minister Li Shangfu was suddenly removed only seven months into his role and later expelled from the party for alleged bribery and “disciplinary violations.”

The timing of these latest expulsions is significant, occurring just before the fourth plenum, a four-day high-level meeting starting Monday that will address economic and strategic planning for the five-year period leading up to 2030. The session is expected to emphasize Xi’s priorities, particularly technological self-reliance, military modernization, and economic resilience, as China navigates increasing external challenges and internal economic slowdown.

Zhang concluded that the recent purge reinforces the leadership’s stance that no individual, regardless of rank, is exempt from party discipline or accountability.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli