China’s military has elevated two officers to the rank of general. This follows a purge aimed at rooting out corruption and ensuring loyalty to the Communist Party and its leader, Xi Jinping.
A ceremony, attended by Xi Jinping, saw Zhang Shuguang and Wang Gang receive their promotions. Zhang Shuguang will head the division investigating corruption in the Central Military Commission (CMC). Wang Gang serves as the air force commander.
The campaign against corruption has thinned the military’s ranks, putting these newly promoted generals in a position to fill key roles. The CMC, chaired by Xi, currently only lists Zhang Shengmin as an active member besides Xi. Previous investigations led to the removal of two former vice chairs, including the military’s top general.
A reorganization of the seven-member commission is anticipated next year after the current term ends. The shake-up aims to reinforce Xi’s leadership and maintain party control over the military.
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