Central Military Commission (CMC)

The Central Military Commission (CMC) is China's highest military command body, responsible for directing and controlling the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Recent news highlights a period of significant upheaval within the CMC, marked by purges and investigations into high-ranking military officials, including top generals like Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli, for suspected corruption and disciplinary violations. These actions are seen as part of President Xi Jinping's broader anti-corruption campaign and efforts to ensure political purity and loyalty to the Communist Party within the PLA. The removal of these officials has left vacancies within the CMC and raises questions about the impact on China's military readiness and strategic planning, particularly concerning Taiwan. The CMC is also being urged to improve financial accountability and combat readiness as the PLA approaches its centenary, emphasizing the importance of political rectification and strengthening the party's control over the military.