Corruption Allegations Against Former Chinese Defense Ministers

China’s leadership accused two former defense ministers on Thursday of engaging in corrupt practices that compromised military promotions and the nation’s weapons production complex.

Gen. Li Shangfu, who served as defense minister for much of last year, and Gen. Wei Fenghe, the minister from 2018 to 2023, were both implicated in taking “huge” bribes, among other acts of corruption. The Chinese Communist Party’s Politburo revealed multiple accusations of crime and insubordination against the two generals, hinting at further investigations and potential repercussions within the military hierarchy.

Details of the Allegations

• General Li was found to have accepted bribes in exchange for abusing his powers, including corrupt personnel decisions, bribery, and obstructing the investigation into his wrongdoings.
• General Wei faced similar accusations, including accepting valuables and money in exchange for favors.

Both former defense ministers were stripped of their military ranks, expelled from the Communist Party, and had their cases forwarded to military prosecutors. This indicates that they are likely to face trial and severe penalties, possibly including heavy sentences or even death sentences if their crimes are deemed serious. The statements also implied that their actions were seen as a betrayal of Mr. Xi Jinping, the Chairman of the Central Military Commission and the leader of the Communist Party.