Authored by Dorothy Li via The Epoch Times
China’s Military Purges Continue as Two Top Generals Removed
Zhang Youxia, once China’s top general, has been removed from the national Central Military Commission (CMC) as part of the ongoing turmoil within the country’s armed forces.
Zhang, who had been vice chair of the national CMC since 2018, was abruptly dismissed without any explanation in an announcement by the National People’s Congress Standing Committee via state media Xinhua on Aug. 28.
Accused of serious violations of discipline and laws, Zhang and another senior commander, Liu Zhenli, faced swift consequences. Liu was stripped of his title as a member of the national CMC.
The ongoing purge in China’s military has seen over 100 senior commanders removed since 2022, raising concerns about the PLA’s combat readiness.
Unlike previous targets, Zhang and Liu are experienced battlefield generals, having served in conflicts with Vietnam in the past.
The recent removals have significantly reduced the CMC’s leadership, leaving only one member besides Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the helm.
The purge extends beyond the military to include senior officials like Zhong Shaojun, a long-time aide to Xi, and Ju Qiansheng, commander of the PLA Strategic Support Force.
China’s public has been encouraged to report any procurement violations within the military, indicating a crackdown on corruption and misconduct within the armed forces.
The ongoing power struggle within the Communist Party has led to these high-profile dismissals, signaling a significant shift in China’s military leadership.