Xi Jinping commands strict overhaul of China’s armed forces

Amid escalating tensions between China and the United States, there are increasing indications that Beijing's principal challenge may originate internally.

British newspaper The Guardian writes that Chinese President Xi Jinping has made new calls to sweep corruption in the Beijing government, particularly in the Armed Forces.

The Chinese leader said that the Communist Party must “turn the knife inward” to instill discipline and root out corrupt officials.

“As the situation and tasks facing the party change, there will inevitably be all kinds of conflicts and problems within the party”, Xi warned, as quoted by The Guardian.

The Chinese leader added: “We must have the courage to turn the knife inward and eliminate their negative impact in a timely manner to ensure that the party is always full of vigour and vitality”.

CNN highlights that during the early years of Xi Jinping’s government, the Chinese leader focused on extensive crackdowns within the ranks of the world’s largest military force.

Now, over a decade later, Xi still continues his battle against corruption and disloyalty with the People’s Liberation Army.

In many cases, CNN points out, the Chinese leader is going against former allies, followers, and loyalists within the Armed Forces.

According to CNN, since mid-2024 a dozen high-ranking military officers has been ousted from the Chinese government, including the two previous defense ministers.

The Guardian writes that this could be a sign of a growing mistrust between the Chinese leader and top brass of the military.

This lack of confidence within the government could be a growing problem in case China is forced to enter into an international military conflict.

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