China's Communist Party has confirmed the expulsion of 33 senior officials, a significant move that underscores President Xi Jinping's ongoing campaign against corruption and his firm grip on power. The expulsions were announced in a communique following the party's fifth plenum on October 29, 2026, according to state news agency Xinhua.
Among those removed was Zhang Youxia, formerly vice chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), China's highest military command body chaired by President Xi. Zhang was considered one of the most influential military figures before his removal. Another prominent official expelled was Ma Xingrui, a former Politburo member and aerospace engineer who previously served as Communist Party secretary of Xinjiang.
Key Figures Among the Expelled
The disciplinary actions extended across various sectors of government and state institutions. Other notable officials on the expulsion list include:
- Liu Zhenli: Former chief of the CMC's Joint Staff Department.
- Liu Jianchao: Who previously headed the Communist Party's International Department and was seen as a potential candidate for foreign minister.
- Jin Zhuanglong: Former industry minister, who oversaw China's industry and information technology portfolio.
The financial sector also saw significant changes, with Yi Huiman, former chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, among those expelled. Additionally, Li Yunze, former head of the National Financial Regulatory Administration, was stripped of his party positions.
Consolidation of Power and Future Outlook
The communique stated that the party had reviewed reports concerning “serious violations of discipline and law,” confirming disciplinary decisions previously taken by the Politburo. This wave of expulsions is consistent with Xi Jinping's extensive anti-corruption campaign, which has targeted officials across the military, government, and state-owned enterprises since he assumed power in 2012.
In a related development, Zhang Shengmin, also a vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, was elevated to the Politburo. With the removal of other senior generals, the CMC's active leadership has effectively been streamlined to President Xi and Zhang Shengmin.
The Communist Party also confirmed that its next national congress is scheduled for the second half of 2027. During this crucial meeting, President Xi Jinping is widely anticipated to seek a fourth term as the party leader, further solidifying his long-term leadership.