Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun has reportedly been placed under investigation for corruption, making him the third consecutive minister to face such allegations. Dong, a former navy commander, assumed office in December 2023 following the removal of Li Shangfu, who was expelled from the Communist Party for bribery. Li’s predecessor, Wei Fenghe, also faced similar charges.
President Xi Jinping’s intensified anti-corruption drive within the military aims to address graft concerns that could undermine China’s war readiness. Analysts have noted that corruption within the military, including its Rocket Force—a division overseeing China’s nuclear and conventional missiles—poses risks to operational integrity.
Experts suggest that corruption scandals erode morale and highlight the competitive nature of appointments in the People’s Liberation Army, with investigations often leading to cycles of arrests and new appointments. Beijing’s commitment to rooting out corruption reflects Xi’s broader aim to strengthen the military’s capabilities and reputation globally.
(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)
