BEIJING, Jun 27: China has removed six senior military representatives, former financial regulator Li Yunze and Politburo member Ma Xingrui from the National People’s Congress (NPC), the country’s highest legislative body, in the latest development linked to President Xi Jinping’s long running anti-corruption campaign.
According to state-run Xinhua News Agency, the decision was announced through a notice issued by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on Friday. The notice confirmed the removal of the lawmakers but did not specify any reasons behind the action.
The latest dismissals come amid an intensified campaign against corruption and misconduct within China’s political, financial and military establishments. Over the past several years, the anti-graft drive has led to investigations, disciplinary action and the removal of numerous high-ranking officials and senior military commanders.
Among those stripped of their legislative positions is General Xu Xueqiang, who heads the Equipment Development Department of the Central Military Commission. The department oversees the research, procurement and testing of military equipment for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Xu has also served as commander in chief of China’s Manned Space Programme since 2022.
The list also includes General Li Fengbiao, former political commissar of the PLA Western Theatre Command, General Guo Puxiao, former political commissar of the PLA Air Force, Wang Kangping of the Eastern Theatre Command, Zhang Minghua of the Cyberspace Force and Yin Hongxing of the Army.
Former financial regulator Li Yunze also lost his lawmaker status, along with Politburo member Ma Xingrui, who had recently come under official scrutiny. However, Chinese authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific grounds for their removal.
The Ministry of National Defense did not immediately comment on the announcement, and no official explanation has been issued regarding the dismissals.
Political analysts view the move as another indication that Beijing’s anti-corruption campaign remains firmly focused on strengthening party discipline and tightening oversight across key sectors, particularly the military and financial system. The campaign, launched by President Xi Jinping after taking office, has resulted in sweeping changes across China’s political landscape and continues to reshape the country’s senior leadership.
The latest action underscores the Chinese leadership’s continued emphasis on accountability within the Communist Party and the armed forces, even as details surrounding individual cases remain largely undisclosed.