Zhang Shengmin

General Zhang Youxia, formerly the first-ranked vice-chairman of China's Central Military Commission (CMC) and considered the country's top uniformed officer, is currently under investigation for alleged "grave violations of discipline and the law." This investigation, announced by China's Defense Ministry, marks a significant purge within the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Zhang, previously seen as a close military ally of President Xi Jinping and his trusted second-in-command, joins a growing list of high-ranking military officials facing scrutiny. His removal and investigation are believed to be a stark warning emphasizing President Xi's focus on Communist Party discipline and political purity. The event underscores potential power struggles within the PLA and highlights Xi Jinping's zero-tolerance approach to corruption and disloyalty within the military ranks.