Two top Chinese military generals removed, under investigation for ‘serious violations’
Observers say the move highlights President Xi Jinping’s resolve to prioritise party discipline ahead of two landmark events in 2027.
China has placed two of its top military generals under investigation for “serious” disciplinary violations, the country’s Ministry of National Defence announced on January 24, 2026. One is Zhang Youxia, the nation’s highest-ranking uniformed officer. He is the first-ranked vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), China’s top military command body headed by President Xi Jinping. Zhang is also a member of the Politburo, the Communist Party’s highest decision-making body. Also being investigated is Liu Zhenli, chief of the CMC’s Joint Staff Department. Their downfall marks an unprecedented near wipeout of the current CMC. Observers say it is part of a larger effort by President Xi to prioritise party discipline ahead of the 100th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army next year.