Xi Fires China's Defense Minister
Defense Minister Fired with 'No Explanation'
Overt Operator
October 24, 2023
In a surprising move that adds to the growing speculation of an anti-corruption crackdown, China's Defense Minister Li Shangfu has been fired without any official reason offered. This comes just months after the ouster of Foreign Minister Qin Gang, raising questions about a broader political crackdown under President Xi Jinping.
Li Shangfu, who was appointed to the position in March, had not been seen in public since late August. His removal has already been approved by the National People's Congress, the rubber-stamp legislature, and he is no longer a member of the powerful Central Military Commission.
One of the key reasons behind Li's dismissal could be the US sanctions he was under, which Beijing strongly protested. The New York Times reports that there are rumors Li could be facing formal charges, although it remains uncertain if he is being investigated for any criminal offenses.
Li's abrupt removal comes as a surprise to many, as he recently represented China at a forum for regional officials in Singapore, where he presented the country as a force for stability and criticized the United States for stirring trouble in the region.
This shake-up at the highest defense and political levels in China has sparked intense speculation and rumors. Some analysts suggest it is a move by President Xi Jinping to ensure total pro-Xi loyalty and tighten controls on national security.
The firing of two high-profile officials within a short period suggests a pattern of unpredictable high-level politics under Xi's leadership. The lack of official reasons offered for these dismissals only fuels speculation and raises concerns about transparency within the Chinese government.
It is worth noting that Li Shangfu's removal comes amid ongoing tensions between China and the United States, particularly in the areas of trade and national security. These developments could further complicate the already strained relationship between the two global powers.
As the news of Li's firing spreads, it will be interesting to see how it affects China's defense policies and its relationships with other countries. The sudden departure of a defense minister raises questions about the stability and continuity of China's military strategy.
While the true reasons behind Li Shangfu's dismissal remain unknown, this latest shake-up underscores the capriciousness of high-level politics in China under Xi Jinping. As rumors and speculation abound, it is clear that the repercussions of these moves will be felt not only within China but also on the global stage.