Zhang Shengmin

Zhang Shengmin is the vice-chairman of China's Central Military Commission (CMC). He is newsworthy because, amidst a significant purge of high-ranking military officials, including Zhang Youxia, he has been publicly advocating for increased "political rectification" within the People's Liberation Army (PLA). This call comes as China approaches the PLA's centenary and aims to strengthen Communist Party control and combat corruption within the armed forces. The recent investigations into top generals like Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli highlight the urgency of these efforts. Zhang Shengmin's emphasis on political purity and loyalty to the party underscores the ongoing efforts to consolidate power and discipline within the PLA, particularly in light of these high-profile corruption cases.