China expels defence industry officials from legislature amid corruption crackdown

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Alcott WeiFebruary 4, 2026 at 02:49 PM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

China's legislature expelled three senior defense industry executives, including a nuclear weapons expert, on Wednesday. The officials removed from the National People's Congress were Liu Cangli, Luo Qi, and Zhou Xinmin, all of whom held prominent positions in key defense-related organizations. Liu Cangli formerly headed the China Academy of Engineering Physics, a nuclear weapons research and production unit. While the reasons for their expulsion were not explicitly stated, it is believed to be connected to China's ongoing anti-corruption campaign targeting the defense sector. Their removal suggests they may face further disciplinary action or criminal charges.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Beijing 50% Luo Qi 70% Zhou Xinmin 70% National People’s Congress 70% China National Nuclear Corporation 70% Aviation Industry Corporation of China 70% Liu Cangli ×280% China Academy of Engineering Physics ×380% China ×490%

Keywords

corruption crackdown 90% china 80% defence industry 80% legislature 70% expulsion 70% nuclear weapons 60% criminal charges 50% disciplinary action 50% china academy of engineering physics 40%