China Elevates Zhang Shengmin to Vice Chairman of Central Military Commission Amid Largest Military Shake-Up in Eight Years

China's Communist Party has appointed General Zhang Shengmin as Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), placing him as the second-highest military official under President Xi Jinping. Zhang, aged 67, has a long history in China's military, including leadership roles in the anti-corruption commission within the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and service in China's nuclear forces. His promotion coincides with a major purge of senior military officials, including the expulsion of former CMC Vice Chairman He Weidong and other top commanders for grave violations of Party discipline and state laws. Alongside Zhang's elevation, senior general Zhang Fengzhong of the PLA Rocket Force has come under investigation for corruption, highlighting ongoing efforts to consolidate power and enforce discipline within the military. The reshuffle also saw 11 new members added to the elite Central Committee, reinforcing Xi Jinping's control over the Party and military. This reshuffling reflects Xi's continued dominance amid recent rumors about his political standing and underscores a sustained campaign against corruption in China's armed forces.