Suspended Suspicion: High-Level Corruption Strikes China's Military Again

In a startling development, Chinese naval leader Adm. Miao Hua has been suspended amid corruption allegations, revealing ongoing struggles against graft within military ranks.

Admiral Miao Hua, a prominent figure in China's military echelon, has been suspended from his position following intense scrutiny for “serious violations of discipline,” as announced by the Ministry of National Defense in Beijing. This investigation raises questions about the persistent issue of corruption in the People's Liberation Army (P.L.A.) despite President Xi Jinping's stringent anti-corruption campaign.

The announcement came via Senior Colonel Wu Qian during a monthly briefing, emphasizing the gravity of Miao's predicament as he heads the Political Work Department, the entity responsible for upholding Communist Party discipline in the military. This position places him in a pivotal role amidst the party's efforts to maintain control, underscoring how the challenge of corruption remains deeply embedded in military structures.

Drew Thompson, a former U.S. Defense Department official, highlighted the seriousness of the charges against Miao, stating that being a head of the political commission carries more weight compared to that of the defense minister, who lacks direct command over troop budgets or units. The investigations echo disturbing patterns illustrated earlier this year when two former defense ministers were also publicly dismantled for misconduct against the party, suggesting a systemic struggle within military governance.

While the suspension of Admiral Miao appears to be an attempt to uphold party integrity and discipline, it simultaneously casts doubt on the effectiveness of Xi's anti-corruption measures. As investigations progress, the military and political landscape of China might face further upheavals, as the ripple effects of such high-profile cases continue to resonate through the armed forces. This episode has reignited discussions about accountability within China's military leadership and the broader implications for party loyalty and governance.