China Reshuffles Parliament, Removing Nine Military Officials

China reorganized its parliament, expelling nine military officials, including four generals from the strategic missile unit, following the appointment of a new defense minister. The decision was announced by the state news agency Xinhua after a meeting of the Communist Party’s Central Committee, with no official explanation provided for the removal of these officials.

This restructuring is part of a series of high-level changes within the military since the abrupt dismissal of Defense Minister Li Shangfu in October, following his disappearance from public view in August. The recent appointment of Dong Jun as the new defense minister, filling a prolonged vacancy in this crucial role, is the latest development. Changes in leadership within China’s secretive Rocket Force, responsible for overseeing Beijing’s nuclear arsenal, have also taken place in recent months amid reports of a corruption investigation involving its former chief.

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The nine military officials, who held seats in the National People’s Congress as non-elected representatives, are speculated to be under investigation, according to SinoInsider, a US-based firm specializing in Chinese politics.

Dong Jun’s appointment reflects President Xi Jinping’s efforts to strengthen China’s military capabilities, aiming to elevate the country’s status as a global power. The defense minister acts as a public face for the People’s Liberation Army, engaging with the media and other military entities, although the military has limited influence in its administration compared to other nations.