Purge of Top Generals Signals Potential Rift Within China’s Military Leadership
BEIJING – A recent expulsion of nine senior military officers from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), including former Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) General He Weidong, has raised questions about internal divisions within the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and potential disagreements over policy toward taiwan. The purge, announced in October 2025, centers on allegations of corruption and “serious violations of discipline and law.”
General he, a member of the CCP’s Politburo and previously commander of the Eastern Theater Command (2019-2022) – the unit responsible for Taiwan operations – was a close associate of President Xi Jinping. The othre purged officers also shared connections to Fujian province and former eastern Theatre Command commander Lin Xiangyang, as well as Navy Admiral Miao Hua.
The timing of the removals is notable given Xi Jinping’s unwavering stance on Taiwan. He has consistently refused to renounce the use of force to achieve reunification, while together stating a preference for “peaceful reunification.” He frames potential military action as a response to “external forces” or ”separatist activities” in Taiwan, and continues to authorize military exercises near the island.
Analysts suggest the purged generals may have harbored reservations about Xi’s Taiwan policy. The incident highlights the potential for disagreements within the military to impact the inner workings of the CCP, notably concerning the strategically vital issue of Taiwan.
The developments underscore the complex interplay of loyalty,power,and policy within China’s leadership as it navigates its approach to Taiwan. The situation warrants close observation as it could influence future decisions regarding cross-strait relations.
