Purging Of Top Chinese Generals Shows Central Military Commission In "Disarray"

"General He Weidong, once the second-highest-ranking officer in China’s military and a close ally of President Xi Jinping, has been purged—three months after vanishing from public view.
His removal is now clear, following his absence from a high-profile funeral and other political signals, according to Nikkei.

While such purges have become more common, He’s case is notable because he was an active member of Xi’s inner circle. He was promoted under Xi, seen as trusted, and attended the final session of China’s parliament just in March—his last public appearance.
The PLA has seen significant internal turmoil, especially since the Communist Party’s 20th Congress in late 2022. Several top military figures—including Defense Ministers Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe, and CMC Political Work Department head Miao Hua—have also disappeared or been removed.
These purges have left the CMC in disarray. Its membership has dropped from seven to just four, including Xi himself. Nearly half of the leadership selected in 2022 is now gone, signaling instability at the military’s highest levels." ZH