Xi Jinping promotes two generals amid military anti-corruption probe

Chinese President Xi Jinping promoted two military officers to the rank of general, appointing one to lead the military's top disciplinary and anti-corruption body. Zhang Shuguang, a veteran anti-graft officer, and Wang Gang, commander of the PLA Air Force, received the promotions. Zhang Shuguang will now head the Central Military Commission's (CMC) discipline inspection commission, replacing Zhang Shengmin.

These appointments come as Xi continues a sweeping anti-corruption campaign that has led to the investigation and removal of numerous senior officials and generals. The campaign has significantly reduced the size of China's supreme military command. In response, Xi has initiated intensive political retraining for senior PLA officers, emphasizing loyalty and self-revolution.

Analysts suggest Xi's actions aim to enhance political control and ensure the People's Liberation Army (PLA) becomes a more effective warfighting force, even at the risk of short-term readiness impacts. The current CMC lineup, established in October 2022, is expected to be renewed after the next Communist Party congress, likely in autumn 2027.