Xi Jinping Executes Largest Military Purge in China Since Mao

Under President Xi Jinping's leadership during his third term, China is undergoing the largest purge of its military leadership in half a century, with about 20% of the generals he personally appointed being removed or placed under investigation. This includes high-profile figures such as General He Weidong, the deputy chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), which has seen its membership reduced from seven to four, the smallest size since Mao Zedong's era. These purges are officially framed as anti-corruption measures targeting bribery and the buying of positions, but analysts also view them as a move by Xi to consolidate personal power and centralize control over the military. The removals have caused significant instability within the PLA's command structure, raising concerns about the armed forces' readiness, especially amid increasing tensions such as the potential conflict over Taiwan. The purges mark a stark departure from the more stable military leadership under previous Chinese presidents and coincide with China’s efforts to showcase advanced military capabilities in upcoming parades. Despite the opacity surrounding these dismissals, the absence of key military leaders at public events has become a key indicator of Xi’s ongoing internal power reshuffling.