BEIJING: China has expelled two of its most senior military figures, Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli, from the Communist Party and the armed forces, marking the latest development in President Xi Jinping’s sweeping campaign against corruption and disciplinary violations within the country’s military establishment.
According to official announcements reported by state and international media, the two leaders were accused of disloyalty, corruption and other serious disciplinary offences. The move represents one of the most significant actions taken against high-ranking military officials in recent years and underscores Beijing’s determination to tighten control over the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
Zhang previously served as vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), China’s highest military command body, and was considered one of the most influential figures within the armed forces. Liu was also a member of the CMC and headed its Joint Staff Department, placing him among the top decision-makers responsible for military operations and planning.
Investigations into both officials were announced earlier this year, with authorities launching probes into alleged misconduct. Their removal follows a series of disciplinary actions targeting senior military officers as part of Xi’s broader anti-corruption campaign, which has reshaped China’s political and military landscape since he came to power in 2012.
The campaign has resulted in the investigation of millions of officials across various levels of government and has led to the dismissal of numerous senior figures from both civilian and military positions. Analysts view the latest expulsions as a sign that the anti-corruption drive remains a central pillar of Xi’s leadership strategy.
The PLA has become a particular focus of these efforts in recent years. Multiple investigations and removals have reduced the number of active members within the previously seven-member Central Military Commission, reflecting the scale of the ongoing purge.
Observers say the latest action is likely to strengthen Xi’s control over China’s military while reinforcing the leadership’s message that loyalty and discipline remain non-negotiable within the country’s armed forces.