In a sensational turn of events, China has executed a sweeping reshuffle in its military leadership, expelling nine officials, including four strategic missile unit generals, from its parliament. This drastic action, announced by state news agency Xinhua, follows the appointment of the country’s new defence minister.

The reshuffle, which was revealed following the Central Committee of the ruling Communist Party’s meeting, has stirred significant speculation, with the government providing no explanation for the removals. This series of high-level restructuring moves in the military establishment coincides with the dramatic dismissal of Defence Minister Li Shangfu, who was sacked in October amid months of mystery surrounding his whereabouts.

Li, who vanished from public view in August, was formally dismissed in October, leaving the defence minister post vacant until recently. China appointed Dong Jun as the new defence minister, marking the end of this prolonged vacancy.

This reshuffle includes changes in the leadership of China’s secretive Rocket Force, the army unit overseeing Beijing’s nuclear arsenal, amidst media reports of a corruption investigation. SinoInsider, a US-based firm specializing in Chinese politics, noted that the dismissal of the nine military officials from the National People’s Congress suggests ongoing probes and confirms circulating rumors.

The new defence minister’s appointment comes as President Xi Jinping focuses on upgrading the military, a key part of his vision to establish China as a dominant global power. Dong Jun, the 62-year-old former chief of the People’s Liberation Army Navy, steps into a role that involves being the public face of the army, particularly in media and international military engagements.

Notably, during his short tenure, Li did not hold any meetings with his US counterpart, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin. The ministry has stated that the US must first lift sanctions placed on Li in 2018 over his involvement in purchasing Russian aircraft and equipment.

This reshuffle represents a critical phase in China’s military and political landscape, with implications for international relations and domestic governance.

  China, Communist Party of China, Dong Jun, Li Shangfu, People’s Liberation Army