China has expelled two high-ranking military officers from the ruling Communist Party due to corruption, state media reported on Monday. Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli were investigated for "serious violations of the law," a common euphemism for corruption. Youxia held the position of vice chairman on the Central Military Commission, making him China's highest-ranked general. Their expulsion is part of President Xi Jinping's sweeping anti-graft drive.
The investigation into Youxia and Zhenli's cases revealed "exceptionally large sums of money" were involved. The two men were accused of forming cliques, accepting huge sums of money for personal gain, and using their positions to help others in matters such as job promotion. Their expulsion was decided by top officials meeting in Beijing on Monday, and their cases will be transferred to the military's legal organs for review and prosecution.
Youxia's fall from grace shocked observers due to his seniority and perceived closeness to China's leader. His position as vice chairman on the Central Military Commission made him a high-profile figure. The announcement of his expulsion fit into the broader anti-corruption campaign that has characterized President Xi Jinping's time in power.
The Central Military Commission is the highest decision-making body for China's military. Youxia and Zhenli's expulsion from the Communist Party is subject to ratification at a plenary session of the party's Central Committee. The decision to expel them "reaffirms the firm position that there is absolutely no place for corrupt elements to hide within the military," state news agency Xinhua reported.
Last month, Youxia and Zhenli were stripped of their positions in the state Central Military Commission. Their expulsion from the Communist Party marks a significant development in China's ongoing anti-corruption campaign. The campaign has targeted high-ranking officials across various sectors, including the military.
The investigation into Youxia and Zhenli's cases found that they had "become disloyal to the party… and crossed red lines" by engaging in a list of offences. Their cases will be reviewed and prosecuted by the military's legal organs. The expulsion of these high-ranking military officers demonstrates China's commitment to addressing corruption within its military.
The anti-corruption campaign has been a key aspect of President Xi Jinping's tenure. The campaign has led to the downfall of numerous high-ranking officials, including military officers, politicians, and business leaders. The expulsion of Youxia and Zhenli serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, regardless of their position or rank.
Key points
- China expels two high-ranking military officers over corruption as part of its ongoing anti-graft drive.
- The expelled officers, Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli, were accused of forming cliques and accepting huge sums of money for personal gain.
- Their expulsion demonstrates China's commitment to addressing corruption within its military.
