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Anti-corruption campaign in China reaches military leadership

Submitted by Вера Александрова on

(26 January 2026 | Source: Official newspaper of the People's Liberation Army of China, PLA Daily)

The official newspaper of the People's Liberation Army of China, PLA Daily, reported the launch of investigations into two high-ranking military officials — Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli

According to the publication, the decision was made by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China as part of the anti-corruption campaign in the armed forces. The individuals are suspected of serious violations of discipline and the law.

DECISION OF THE CPC CENTRAL COMMITTEE

In the article, it is emphasised that the investigation demonstrates the firm stance of the party leadership and the Central Military Commission.

The authorities state a policy of ‘zero tolerance’ towards corruption and that there are no exceptions based on position or status.

WHAT THE SERVICEMEN ARE ACCUSED OF

The actions of the individuals led to political and disciplinary violations:

  • they undermined the system of party leadership over the military;
  • they negatively affected the internal political environment;
  • they damaged the political construction and combat effectiveness of the People's Liberation Army of China.

Specific incidents and details of the charges are not disclosed in the article.

OBJECTIVES OF THE INVESTIGATION

The article emphasises that the anti-corruption campaign is seen as a long-term and systemic measure. According to the publication's assessment, the investigations should help strengthen discipline, cleanse the ranks, and further develop the armed forces.

WHAT TASKS HAVE BEEN SET FOR SERVICEMEN

The article separately lists the requirements for personnel:

  • maintain political loyalty to the CPC Central Committee headed by Xi Jinping;
  • strictly implement the decisions of the Central Committee and the Central Military Commission;
  • strengthen discipline and combat corruption;
  • accelerate the transformation of the PLA into a world-class military.