China expels former defense chiefs from Communist Party

The Chinese Communist Party on Thursday removed former Defense Minister Li Shangfu over allegations that he engaged in corruption, according to state media outlet Xinhua. The Defense Ministry said he used his authority to accept bribes and grant favors. China on Thursday also expelled his predecessor Wei Fenghe from the party over accusations that he violated political and organizational discipline, resisted an investigation, and participated in bribery, according to state broadcaster CCTV. Wei served in the defense minister role from 2018 to 2023 before Li replaced him in March last year. The Chinese Communist Party has been the country’s ruling political party for over 70 years. 

Why was Li removed from office? Officials in late August began an investigation into Li shortly after his last public appearance, according to CCTV. The government removed him from office in October as part of a series of personnel changes within the party. Former Foreign Minister Qin Gang was ousted in July and was replaced by his predecessor, Wang Yi.

Dig deeper: Read Josh Schumacher’s report on a Hong Kong court convicting pro-democracy activists earlier this year.