On October 17, 2025, China’s Ministry of Defense made a historic announcement regarding the dismissal of nine PLA generals. This unprecedented decision has sent shockwaves through the military community.
Nine PLA Generals Dismissed
The generals dismissed include high-ranking officials such as:
- He Weidong – Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission
- Miao Hua – Director of the Political Work Department
- He Hongjun – Executive Deputy Director of the Political Work Department
- Wang Xiubin – Executive Deputy Director of the Joint Operations Command
- Lin Xiangyang – Commander of the Eastern Theater Command
- Qin Shutong – Political Commissar of the Army
- Yuan Huazhi – Political Commissar of the Navy
- Wang Houbin – Commander of the Rocket Force
- Wang ChunNing – Commander of the Armed Police Force
All nine generals were also expelled from the Communist Party. Eight of them are members of the 20th Central Committee, and their expulsions require confirmation from the upcoming Fourth Plenary Session.
A Shift in Military Leadership
This large-scale dismissal indicates two critical points:
- The military has become a significant focus of the recent anti-corruption campaign.
- There may be an impending overhaul in the leadership structure of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
The Fourth Plenary Session is expected to confirm the sanctions against these generals and might reveal further investigations into other lower-ranking officers.
Corruption within the Military Ranks
Reports indicate that despite no senior officials in the civilian sector being investigated, a high-profile member of the Central Military Commission has been affected. He Weidong’s case marks a troubling precedent.
Historically, prior to Xi Jinping’s administration, only one general had faced expulsion. Since Xi took office, 22 generals have lost their positions within the party and the military.
Connections and Potential Implications
The dismissed generals exhibit prominent geographic ties, primarily stemming from the 31 Group Army. This army has close ties to Xi Jinping, who long monitored it during his years in Fujian. Its rise in prominence points to strong factional affiliations within the military.
Experts like Victor Shih contend that these dismissals may suggest deeper issues, including unchecked ambition among generals attempting to bolster their power bases within the military hierarchy.
Anticipated Changes in Military Command
The extensive removal of these generals leaves numerous vacancies within the military leadership. Observers speculate about potential successors, including:
- Liu Zhenli or Zhang Shengmin for the position of Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission
- Current Defense Minister Dong Jun may also be considered for a higher role
In the wake of these changes, air force generals have begun filling critical roles across various branches of military leadership. This reshuffling may significantly alter the PLA’s power dynamics and operational effectiveness in the near future.
