Xi Jinping Warns Chinese Military: No Room for Disloyalty Amidst Anti-Corruption Drive

China - Ekhbary News Agency

Xi Jinping Warns Chinese Military: No Room for Disloyalty Amidst Anti-Corruption Drive

During China's most significant annual political event, the 'Two Sessions' (Lianghui), comprising the National People's Congress and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, President Xi Jinping delivered a forceful caution to the military delegation. He unequivocally stated that "those with ulterior motives against the Party must not be in the military," emphasizing the paramount importance of absolute loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

According to China's official Xinhua News Agency, reporting on March 8, President Xi made these remarks the previous afternoon during a plenary session of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and Armed Police Force delegation at the fourth meeting of the 14th National People's Congress. Xi stressed, "The military is where the guns are held, and as such, there must absolutely be no one within the military who harbors ulterior motives towards the Party." He further asserted, "There must absolutely be no hiding place for corrupt elements, and an unwavering anti-corruption struggle must be pushed forward."

These pronouncements carry significant weight, coming as they do in the wake of the downfall of Zhang Youxia, formerly the second-in-command of the Central Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party. Zhang is currently under investigation for serious violations of discipline and law, highlighting the relentless nature of Xi Jinping's anti-corruption campaign within the military. This campaign, often dubbed the 'tigers and flies' initiative, has targeted both high-ranking officials and lower-level personnel, aiming to cleanse the Party and the military of corrupt elements and ensure unquestioning obedience to Party leadership.

The principle that "the Party commands the gun" is a foundational tenet of Chinese political doctrine, a principle Xi Jinping has consistently reiterated and reinforced since assuming power in 2012. The PLA, the world's largest standing army, plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the ruling regime. Therefore, any suggestion of 'ulterior motives' or 'corruption' within its ranks is perceived as a direct threat to the Party's authority and Xi's leadership.

Furthermore, President Xi added that "strict supervision regulations must be established from the beginning of the '15th Five-Year Plan'" (2026-2030), specifically referencing the need for meticulous oversight of "fund flows and the exercise of power." This directive reflects the Chinese leadership's long-term vision for enhancing governance and transparency, not only within the military but across all levels of government administration. These measures are designed to plug loopholes that corrupt individuals might exploit and to ensure that all resources and authority are utilized in strict alignment with the Party's and the state's interests.

Analysts interpret these warnings as a move by Xi Jinping to further consolidate his grip on the military, particularly amidst escalating geopolitical tensions and internal challenges. After decades of rapid modernization, the PLA has transformed into a modern, professional fighting force. However, the top leadership remains vigilant in ensuring that this formidable power remains absolutely loyal to the Party and serves its strategic objectives without deviation. The emphasis on combating corruption also sends a clear message that disloyalty or engagement in illicit practices will not be tolerated, regardless of an individual's rank or influence.

These developments unfold at a critical juncture for China, as Beijing strives to achieve ambitious economic and social development goals while maintaining internal stability and enhancing its global standing. The Party's absolute control over the military remains a vital component of this comprehensive strategy, ensuring cohesion and unity in the face of diverse challenges.

Ekhbary News Agency