Chinese President Xi Jinping has made a rare public reference to a recent crackdown which saw the country's top military general removed. General Zhang Youxia, who was widely seen as Xi's closest military ally, was removed from his post in January. He was accused of 'serious violations of discipline and law' - typically a euphemism for corruption. Speaking in a virtual address on Tuesday, Xi said the past year had been 'unusual and extraordinary', adding that the army had 'undergone revolutionary tempering in the fight against corruption'. Since coming to power, President Xi has launched waves of anti-corruption drives, which critics say have also been used as a tool to purge political rivals. In his remarks on Tuesday, Xi stated that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) had effectively addressed 'various risks and challenges', highlighting a process of 'in-depth political rectification' within the army. His comments also marked a significant return to discussing corruption during his annual New Year greetings to the PLA, the first such mention since 2022.
Xi Jinping Speaks on Military Purge Amidst Controversy
Xi Jinping Speaks on Military Purge Amidst Controversy
Chinese President Xi Jinping makes a rare mention of a recent military purge involving General Zhang Youxia, emphasizing the army's fight against corruption during his New Year address to the People's Liberation Army.
In a recent virtual address to the People's Liberation Army, President Xi Jinping acknowledged the unusual circumstances of the past year, referencing a significant military purge involving top General Zhang Youxia. This move is part of Xi's ongoing anti-corruption efforts, which critics argue may serve to consolidate his power by eliminating rivals. Xi reassured the army of its loyalty and capability while addressing potential risks and challenges the military faces. His comments, the first reference to corruption in an annual address since 2022, highlight the intense scrutiny within China's military ranks.
