Fresh Shake-Up Before Annual Gathering
Chinese authorities have confirmed the removal of 19 deputies from the country’s national legislature days before its yearly parliamentary meetings begin in Beijing. Among those dismissed are nine members of the armed forces, including senior officers.
No formal explanation accompanied the announcement, though such decisions in recent years have frequently coincided with corruption probes. The changes were approved by the legislature’s Standing Committee, the body that exercises authority between full sessions.
Military Institutions Under Scrutiny
The latest adjustments further highlight the scrutiny facing China’s defense establishment. Those removed include representatives connected to the Central Military Commission, alongside officers from the army, navy, air force and rocket force. Three of them held general rank.
The rocket force, responsible for managing China’s nuclear capabilities, has already experienced leadership turnover in past waves of investigations. Last month, authorities also announced the departure of a top-ranking general.
President Xi Jinping, now in his fourteenth year in power, has sustained a sweeping anti-corruption drive that has reshaped party, government and military leadership structures. Observers say the campaign aims both to address misconduct and reinforce discipline within the ranks.
Limited Effect on Legislative Agenda
The National People’s Congress, which convenes next week and typically runs for about seven days, is not expected to alter its agenda because of the dismissals. The body’s primary role is to formalize policy directions established by the ruling Communist Party.
Following the changes, the assembly’s membership stands at 2,878 deputies. The removed individuals also included local representatives from several provinces.
Additional Official Departures
Alongside the legislative reshuffle, the Standing Committee approved the removal of two officials, including the president of the military court and Wang Xiangxi, the country’s emergency management minister. Authorities had previously disclosed that Wang is under investigation.
The developments unfold at a sensitive political moment, as policymakers gather to outline economic and governance priorities for the year ahead.
