Veteran General Takes Top Role Amid Sweeping Military Purge
China has appointed General Zhang Shengmin, a long-time military official known for leading the army’s anti-corruption drive, as the country’s second-highest-ranking general.
The announcement was made at the conclusion of a four-day meeting of the Communist Party’s Central Committee, marking a significant reshuffle in China’s top military leadership just days after nine generals were expelled in a sweeping purge.
Zhang’s promotion to second-ranked vice chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) places him just below President Xi Jinping and first vice chairman Zhang Youxia, making him one of the most powerful figures in China’s armed forces.
Trusted Xi Loyalist to Lead Military Reform and Discipline
General Zhang, 67, has earned a reputation as a trusted ally of President Xi Jinping, known for enforcing strict discipline and accountability within the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
Before his promotion, he served as the deputy secretary of the CMC’s anti-corruption department, overseeing high-profile investigations into military misconduct.
A native of Shaanxi province, Zhang joined the PLA in 1978 and rose through the ranks of the Rocket Force, China’s strategic missile command unit. His elevation signals Xi’s continued focus on loyalty and integrity within the armed forces — key elements of his broader campaign to consolidate power and modernize the military.
Nine Generals Expelled in Major Military Crackdown
Zhang’s appointment follows the expulsion of nine senior generals, accused of “serious violations” of party discipline and financial misconduct.
According to the Chinese Defence Ministry, the ousted officials were involved in corruption and abuse of authority, though analysts believe the move also carries political undertones aimed at reinforcing Xi’s control over the military hierarchy.
The purge is one of the largest public crackdowns on the PLA in decades, reflecting growing concern within the Communist Party over corruption, factionalism, and foreign influence in the ranks.
The CMC had earlier warned of a “toxic influence” within the army, issuing new guidelines in July to strengthen ideological purity and internal discipline.
Crackdown Extends Past High-Profile Defence Ministers
This latest purge follows a series of disciplinary actions against top military figures, including former defence ministers Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu, both of whom were dismissed in earlier anti-graft campaigns.
Observers say the continued reshuffles demonstrate that Xi’s anti-corruption drive remains far from over, and that the leadership intends to root out any elements that could threaten internal stability or military cohesion.
Experts note that the campaign not only targets financial wrongdoing but also serves as a political mechanism to ensure absolute loyalty to President Xi, who chairs the Central Military Commission and commands direct authority over the PLA.
Party Meeting Highlights New Strategic Priorities
Alongside Zhang’s appointment, the Central Committee approved a new five-year plan outlining the Communist Party’s key policy priorities through 2030.
The plan emphasizes technological self-reliance, urging Chinese industries to develop advanced computing and semiconductor capabilities amid growing Western trade restrictions.
It also highlights goals for “accelerating the green transition”, “modernizing national defence”, and “boosting domestic consumption” — key strategies to counter global economic headwinds and reduce dependence on foreign markets.
The document underscores Xi’s long-term vision of a strong, self-reliant China, capable of maintaining economic growth while defending its strategic interests.
Reinforcing Party Control Over the Military
Analysts say Zhang Shengmin’s elevation reflects Xi Jinping’s intent to tighten civilian oversight of the military and prevent corruption from eroding China’s combat readiness.
Under Xi’s leadership, the PLA has undergone sweeping modernization, from new space and cyberwarfare units to advanced missile programs. Yet, internal corruption and procurement scandals have continued to surface, undermining operational efficiency.
By appointing a proven disciplinarian like Zhang, the leadership aims to restore confidence and reinforce the message that loyalty to the Communist Party is paramount.
“Zhang’s promotion consolidates Xi’s control over the military,” said a Beijing-based political analyst. “It’s a clear signal that discipline, not dissent, will shape the PLA’s future.”
Implications for China’s Global Strategy
Zhang’s appointment also comes at a delicate geopolitical moment for China, as tensions remain high with the United States, Taiwan, and regional neighbours.
The leadership reshuffle suggests that Beijing wants a streamlined, corruption-free command structure capable of responding quickly to global and domestic challenges.
Observers believe Zhang will play a pivotal role in implementing defence modernization programs, tightening oversight on weapons procurement, and ensuring that China’s expanding military power aligns closely with Xi Jinping’s strategic ambitions.
A New Era of Military Discipline and Loyalty
As the Communist Party continues to reshape the upper echelons of the armed forces, General Zhang Shengmin’s rise marks the beginning of a new phase of military governance — one built on discipline, ideological alignment, and unwavering loyalty to Xi Jinping.
While critics view the ongoing purges as a form of political control, supporters argue they are essential to building a cleaner, more effective military capable of achieving China’s long-term defence goals.
Either way, Zhang’s appointment underscores a defining reality of modern China: military power and political loyalty remain inseparable.
