Overview of the Expulsions
In a significant move, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has expelled nine senior military officials, including General He Weidong and Admiral Miao Hua, amid an extensive anti-corruption campaign. This action represents one of the most substantial purges within the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in recent decades.
Key Figures Involved
- General He Weidong: As the vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) and a member of the Politburo, He was the second-highest-ranking officer in the PLA. His removal marks the first expulsion of a sitting general from the CMC since the Cultural Revolution. He had not been seen publicly since March 2025, fueling speculation about his status.
- Admiral Miao Hua: Formerly the head of the CMC’s political work department, Miao was previously under investigation for serious violations of discipline. His expulsion underscores the campaign’s reach into the military’s political apparatus.
Additional Officials Expelled
Alongside He and Miao, seven other senior military officials were expelled:
- He Hongjun: Former senior official at the PLA Political Work Department.
- Wang Xiubin: Affiliated with the CMC’s Joint Operations Command Centre.
- Lin Xiangyang: Former commander of the Eastern Theatre Command.
- Qin Shutong: Political commissar of the PLA Army.
- Yuan Huazhi: Political commissar of the PLA Navy.
- Wang Houbin: Commander of the Rocket Forces.
- Wang Chunning: Commander of the People’s Armed Police.
These individuals were accused of severe disciplinary violations and significant financial misconduct.
Context and Implications
The expulsions come just before the Fourth Plenum of the Communist Party’s Central Committee, a key political meeting where President Xi Jinping is expected to fill vacancies in the CMC and reinforce his leadership. Analysts interpret these actions as both a demonstration of Xi’s authority and a strategy to elevate loyalists within the military hierarchy.
This crackdown is part of a broader anti-corruption campaign initiated by Xi Jinping, targeting both military and civilian officials to consolidate power and address corruption within the party. The removal of such high-ranking officials underscores the campaign’s intensity and the leadership’s commitment to enforcing discipline within the PLA.
Future Outlook
The expulsion of these top generals is likely to lead to significant reshuffling within the PLA’s leadership. Observers anticipate that President Xi will appoint new members to the CMC during the upcoming plenum, further consolidating his control over the military. The ongoing anti-corruption drive is expected to continue, with potential further purges as the CCP seeks to maintain strict discipline and loyalty within its ranks.
