Fear among army cadre, Xi Jinping disposed of many senior generals…now praising army officers

New Delhi : Chinese President Xi Jinping has made his first public appearance after the huge political earthquake at the top level of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Jinping, who visited Beijing just before the Spring Festival, emphasized the loyalty of ‘grassroots’ soldiers rather than senior army officers. In the last few years, the manner in which old and close generals have been removed within the Chinese Army in the name of anti-corruption campaign has surprised global defense experts.

‘Revolutionary’ war against corruption

Let us tell you that President Jinping described the last year as ‘extraordinary and unusual’ and said that deep political reforms have been carried out in the army. He clarified that this war against corruption is a ‘revolutionary change’ which was necessary to purify the army. Jinping believes that these drastic measures have effectively addressed the risks and challenges within the army. He described the lower level soldiers as trustworthy and praised their honesty.

From rocket force to defense minister

This process of purification in the Chinese Army has been going on since 2023. First of all, many big commanders of the Rocket Force were removed from their posts. After this, action was taken against Defense Minister Li Shangfu in 2024. The year 2025 was also not behind in this matter, when CMC vice chairmen Hei Weidong and Miao Hua were fired. These actions sent a clear message that Jinping would not tolerate any obstruction or corruption coming his way.

The sword struck even those closest to you

In January 2026, the Chinese Army suffered the biggest blow when General Zhang Youxia and Joint Staff Chief Liu Zhenli, considered Xi Jinping’s most trusted confidants, came under investigation. Zhang Youxia was Jinping’s strategic partner for years, but allegations of corruption and sharing nuclear secrets with America did not spare him either. Now the powerful Central Military Commission (CMC) has been reduced to just two members, Jinping and Zhang Shengmin.

Party loyalty is paramount

In China, the army does not belong to the government, but to the Communist Party. According to PLA Daily, the removed officials were accused of challenging the party leadership. Jinping has stressed since 2012 that the military should always follow the orders of civilian leadership and the Party. Cases like taking bribes for promotion gave Jinping the opportunity to further strengthen his ‘absolute control’ over the army.

High alert instructions on the border

Before the Spring Festival holidays, Jinping has instructed the soldiers to take special vigilance regarding border security. He said that being prepared for war even during holidays has been a wonderful tradition of the Chinese Army. During his two-day visit to Beijing, he also met the local people and extended best wishes for the New Year. This visit of Jinping is an attempt to show the army and the country that power is now completely in his hands.