Xi Jinping reshuffles PLA leadership amid sweeping military purge

Chinese President Xi Jinping continues a large‑scale purge of senior officers in the People’s Liberation Army, with 101 senior officers removed since 2022 – about 52% of top posts. The latest promotions, announced at the PLA’s 105th anniversary celebrations, installed General Zhang Shuguang as head of the Central Military Commission’s Discipline Inspection and Supervisory Commissions and General Wang Gang as commander of the PLA Air Force. The senior command now includes Defence Minister Dong Jun, Central Theater Command chief Han Shengyan, CMC vice‑chairman Zhang Shengmin and Eastern Theater Command chief Yang Zhibin.

Analysts note that many newly promoted lieutenant generals are performing duties of full generals despite limited experience, raising questions about leadership continuity as the PLA approaches its centenary modernization goal.