What Could the Chinese Communist Party Reveal About He Weidong Ahead of the Fourth Plenary Session
The upcoming Fourth Plenary Session of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is anticipated to reveal significant developments regarding He Weidong. This senior official has been missing for over seven months, leading to speculation about serious disciplinary violations. Reports indicate that He Weidong, a member of the Party’s Politburo and Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, is under investigation.
The Timeline of Events Surrounding He Weidong
He Weidong’s situation has unfolded dramatically since his disappearance. Key dates and events are summarized below:
- March 11, 2023: He was reportedly detained immediately after a key National People’s Congress session.
- March 25, 2023: U.S. defense officials cited concerns about He undergoing political purges.
- April 10, 2023: He was officially reported to have been removed from his position.
- April 24, 2023: Claims emerged about serious issues within the military involving He and others.
- May 9, 2023: He Weidong’s profile was scrubbed from the Ministry of Defense’s official website.
Disappearance from Public Life
During crucial events, He Weidong’s absence has raised eyebrows. Notable instances include:
- March 14, 2023 – He was missing from a significant meeting on anti-secession laws.
- April 2, 2023 – He was absent from the Central Military Commission’s tree-planting activity.
- Throughout several meetings in April and June, He was notably absent, including high-profile events like a military parade.
Reasons for Delay in Public Disclosure
Several factors may be contributing to the delayed announcement of He Weidong’s situation:
- Groundwork for Xi Jinping: He was seen as a close ally of Xi Jinping and his untimely removal could reflect poorly on the leader.
- Political Ramifications: His potential ties to corruption may indicate a deeper political crisis within the military.
- Public Sentiment: Concerns about societal unrest might deter immediate disclosure. Many citizens face significant hardships, which could exacerbate discontent.
Possible Outcomes Ahead of the Fourth Plenary Session
As the Fourth Plenary Session approaches, it remains uncertain whether He Weidong’s situation will be addressed publicly. The CCP may instead focus on disclosures regarding other individuals implicated in similar investigations.
In conclusion, the fate of He Weidong serves as a reflection of the ongoing political tensions within China. As the CCP prepares for its session, all eyes will be watching for indications of shifting power dynamics.
