China has removed 19 officials — including nine senior military figures — from its list of national lawmakers ahead of its major annual political gathering next week.
The decision was announced by the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee. While no official reason was provided, the move comes amid continued anti-corruption efforts under President Xi Jinping.
Military Officials Among Those Removed
State media reports indicate that those removed include:
- Li Qiaoming, commander of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Ground Force
- Shen Jinlong, former PLA Navy commander
Several other senior military officers and provincial officials were also dismissed, including Sun Shaochong, former party chief of Inner Mongolia.
Broader Anti-Corruption Drive
The removals follow the recent dismissal of senior general Zhang Youxia, reportedly over “serious violations of discipline and law” — a phrase commonly associated with corruption allegations.
Since assuming power in 2013, Xi Jinping has led sweeping anti-corruption campaigns, often described as targeting both high-ranking “tigers” and low-level “flies.” While Beijing maintains the campaign strengthens party discipline, critics argue it may also serve to consolidate political control.
The latest action comes ahead of China’s most significant annual political event, where top policy priorities and leadership signals are closely watched both domestically and internationally.
