Power shifts in China's defence establishment

There are signs that the Chinese military is facing significant internal strife.

- Anushka Saxena

Recently, China's defence ministry announced the suspension of Central Military Commission (CMC) member Admiral Miao Hua for serious disciplinary violations. This decision coincided with reports that defence minister Dong Jun may also be under investigation for corruption.

Historically, public presence has served as an indicator of an official's safety from corruption-related allegations in China. For instance, before their dismissals, former officials like foreign minister Qin Gang and defence minister Li Shangfu had notable absences from public life, before there was confirmation of action being taken against them. Here, it is worth noting that Dong was last seen attending the Second Symposium on Security Situation in the Gulf of Guinea on December 5. Moreover, rumours of a probe against him were dismissed by foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning.

Despite this, recent developments indicate a broader crisis within China's defence apparatus.