China's Ministry of National Defense announced today that General Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, and General Liu Zhenli, chief of the Joint Staff Department, are under investigation for suspected "serious violations of discipline and law". This phrase is often used by Chinese officials in corruption probes involving high-ranking leaders. The investigation was launched following an assessment by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China.

General Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of China's Central Military Commission, in Qingdao in 2024. Photo: Reuters

General Zhang Youxia holds a powerful position as one of the two vice chairmen of the Central Military Commission, ranking second only to Chinese President Xi Jinping within the body.

A native of Shaanxi, Zhang Youxia joined the army in 1968 and holds the rank of general. His career includes leadership roles in the Beijing and Shenyang military regions. He later became a member of the Central Military Commission, overseeing military logistics and equipment. He was appointed a politburo member in 2018, according to his biography on the Ministry of National Defense website.

General Liu Zhenli (center) at an event in Beijing in 10/2023. Photo: Reuters

Liu Zhenli, 61, from Hebei, became a member of the Central Military Commission in 2022 and was appointed chief of the Joint Staff Department in 2023. He also holds the rank of general. His prior roles include commanding two group armies, serving as chief of staff of the armed police, and commander of the Chinese army.

The Joint Staff Department, led by Liu Zhenli, serves as the Chinese military's top operational command. It was established on 11/1/2016, replacing the General Staff Department. The agency reports directly to the Central Military Commission, specializing in strategic planning, joint training, and combat readiness.

Thanh Danh (According to Xinhua, AFP)