Power Struggle Intensifies as Four Generals, Including Wang Chunning, Are Ousted Ahead of Fourth Plenary Session
On October 15, 2025, a significant announcement came from the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China. Four high-ranking military officials, including General Wang Chunning, were dismissed amid allegations of serious violations of discipline and law. This move highlights an ongoing power struggle within the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) military elite.
Details of the Dismissals
The officials removed from their posts are:
- Wang Chunning, Commander of the Armed Police Force
- Zhang Lin, Minister of Logistics for the Central Military Commission
- Gao Dagong, Political Commissar of the Joint Logistics Support Force
- Wang Zhibin, Discipline Inspection Secretary of the Rocket Force
All four were appointed to their positions during President Xi Jinping’s tenure, reinforcing the perception of an internal purge pointing to heightened factional struggles within the military ranks.
Context of the Dismissals
This announcement follows a trend that has seen over 20 senior military officials removed from the ranks since September 2023. Notably, the dismissals include six generals, twelve lieutenant generals, and two rear admirals.
Analysts suggest that these actions reflect instability within the military and a potential crisis in Xi Jinping’s control over the armed forces. Wang Chunning’s close ties to former Central Military Commission member Miao Hua, who was suspended last November, add another layer of complexity to the situation.
Implications for Upcoming Events
The Fourth Plenary Session of the CCP, scheduled for October 20, is expected to scrutinize the fates of these officials, alongside the ongoing speculation regarding the whereabouts of He Weidong, the missing Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission. His absence might indicate ongoing instability within the military hierarchy.
Broader Military Dynamics
The reports reflect a fierce internal power struggle characterized by corruption allegations and factional competition. Researchers, including those from Taiwan’s National Defense Security Research Institute, underscore that this environment constitutes a blatant power fight among competing factions within the military.
Since the 20th National Congress, at least 46 individuals promoted by Xi Jinping have encountered serious troubles. Despite only 19 of these dismissals being officially acknowledged, the political repercussions could be extensive, impacting Xi’s authority.
Public Interest and Future Developments
The upcoming closed-door meeting is closely monitored for potential changes in high-level personnel and shifts in power dynamics. Observers are keen to see how this internal strife will evolve and its implications for the CCP’s stability moving forward.
