Top Chinese Military Official Dismissed Amid Corruption Investigation

General He Weidong, one of China’s most senior military leaders and Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), has reportedly been removed from his post amid an ongoing corruption investigation, signaling renewed momentum in President Xi Jinping’s anti-graft campaign.

According to a report by the Financial Times, citing sources familiar with the matter, General He has been dismissed from his role and is believed to be under detention for interrogation. This comes after weeks of speculation surrounding his absence from public view since the closing session of the National People’s Congress on March 11.

The CMC is the highest military authority in China, overseeing the two-million-strong People’s Liberation Army (PLA). As Vice Chairman, He Weidong held a position second only to President Xi, who chairs both the Party and State versions of the commission.

Xi’s Trusted Ally Falls Under Scrutiny

General He was appointed Vice Chairman of the CMC in October 2022, and by March 2023, he had become Vice Chairman of the State Central Military Commission alongside General Zhang Youxia. His rise was seen as a strong indication of President Xi’s trust, making his sudden disappearance and reported detention particularly striking.

The Chinese Ministry of National Defense has so far declined to comment on the matter, only stating that “there is no information to provide.”

Historical Context and Implications

If confirmed, He Weidong’s ouster would mark the first time in over three decades that such a high-ranking military official is publicly investigated while in office. The last comparable case dates back to 1989, when then-Vice Chairman Zhao Ziyang was removed during the Tiananmen Square protests for supporting pro-democracy demonstrators.

Analysts believe this development reflects a broader tightening of control within the military under Xi’s leadership. Neil Thomas, a China expert at the Asia Society Policy Institute, stated that this move underscores Xi’s determination to root out corruption in the PLA, emphasizing the army’s critical role in safeguarding Communist Party rule—especially in light of increasing geopolitical and economic pressures stemming from the U.S.-China trade conflict.

Anti-Corruption Drive Resurfaces

President Xi’s anti-corruption campaign, launched in 2012, has already led to the downfall of hundreds of top officials across various sectors. The latest action against General He could indicate a fresh wave of purges focused specifically on military leadership, reinforcing discipline and loyalty at a time of growing domestic and international challenges.