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China expels two senior military leaders for corruption and disloyalty

Beijing has removed two high-ranking military officials from the Communist Party as part of an intensifying anti-corruption campaign. The expulsions underscore President Xi Jinping's ongoing efforts to consolidate control over the armed forces.

LSN World News · 21 September 2026

China expels two senior military leaders for corruption and disloyalty

China's Communist Party has expelled two senior military leaders over allegations of corruption and disloyalty, the party's disciplinary apparatus announced. The move marks another significant development in a multi-year anti-corruption drive targeting the People's Liberation Army's upper echelons.

The removals are consistent with Beijing's broader effort to eliminate what officials characterize as factional loyalties and organizational weaknesses within the military hierarchy. Party authorities have framed such purges as essential to strengthening party discipline and ensuring unified command under Xi's leadership.

The anti-corruption campaign in China's armed forces has accelerated since 2012, resulting in the investigation and removal of numerous high-ranking officers. Military leadership changes have intensified scrutiny of procurement practices, personnel appointments, and command structures across the PLA.

Official statements attributed the expulsions to violations of party discipline and alleged failures to uphold organizational principles. Chinese authorities have not disclosed detailed findings or provided extensive commentary on the specific allegations against the dismissed officers.

The expulsions signal continuity in Beijing's approach to military governance, emphasizing loyalty to central party authority and adherence to anti-corruption protocols. Chinese officials maintain such measures are necessary to enhance institutional effectiveness and prevent the emergence of competing power centers within the armed forces.