Is Xi Jinping’s wife behind top level purges, changes in China’s military
Is China’s mighty leader being subtly steered by his equally influential wife from behind the curtain of power?
On June 19, according to a Xinhua report, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasised the importance of political loyalty within the armed forces during a key meeting in Yan’an, Shaanxi Province. He stressed the need for the military to uphold the Communist Party of China’s (CPC) absolute leadership and called on senior officers to align with the Party’s expectations ensuring a solid political guarantee for military development. President Xi highlighted the importance of building a cadre team that is loyal, clean, responsible and capable. He noted significant progress in enforcing strict discipline and eradicating corruption within the military. Political work is essential for military effectiveness and integrity requiring leaders who are reliable and loyal to the Party, said President Xi.
According to a report in Asia Nikkei, there are suggestions that Peng Liyuan, the wife of President Xi Jinping, may have influenced the abrupt dismissals of two former defence ministers, Wei Fenghe and his successor Li Shangfu, from both their ministerial positions and the Chinese Communist Party. The report raises questions about whether President Xi is facing challenges in securing unwavering loyalty from the Chinese military.