China has abruptly replaced the general in charge of political loyalty within the army.

The People's Republic of China (PRC) has unexpectedly replaced the general responsible for the political loyalty of the Ground Forces of the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA).

This was reported by RBK-Ukraine citing Bloomberg.

The new position is now held by Chen Hui, despite his lack of experience in this area. The general's primary task is to ensure political loyalty and proper management of personnel.

Previously, Hui served in the Air Force (PLAAF) and was appointed as the commissioner of the PLA Air and Space Forces in April 2023.

It is noted that he replaced Qin Shutong. At the same time, the reasons for the latter's dismissal are not disclosed. Qin's predecessor retired at the age of 65, which aligns with the unofficial retirement age for high-ranking military officials.

Particularly concerning were the absence of the commander of the Ground Forces, Li Qiaoming, and the former political commissar Qin Shutong during the ceremony of Hui's appointment to the new position.

"The most influential leader of China since Mao Zedong is tightening his control over the army. This year, he ordered a reorganization of the military, replacing the Strategic Support Forces established in 2015 with three new branches. He also held the first military-political working conference since 2014 - a conclave he previously used to assert his authority over the PLA," writes Bloomberg.

Corruption in the PLA

The PLA, which is the largest in the world by personnel count, has recently come under scrutiny due to a series of corruption scandals. These incidents have involved not only two defense ministers but also several high-ranking officials linked to the Rocket Forces, as well as Miao Hua, who held a senior position in the Central Military Commission of China.

As reported by the media at the end of November, China already has its third defense minister suspected of corruption.