China's Mysterious Sackings May Damage XI's Reputation

China’s recent dismissal of its defence minister without any explanation, as it prepared to host foreign defence officials in Beijing, has mystified observers who believe the move could allow for high-level military talks resuming with the US.

- ALISHA RAHAMAN SARKAR

Following two months of unexplained absence, General Li Shangfu was fired as defence minister on Tuesday. Mr Li was the second highest official to be fired after “wolf-warrior” Qin Gang was removed from the foreign minister’s post in July.

The firings of two top public figures, who were reportedly handpicked by Xi Jinping, have raised questions about the president’s absolute hold on the Communist Party as he marched through a precedent-breaking third term as the head of state. Mr Xi has a reputation for valuing loyalty above all and has in the past relentlessly attacked corruption in public and private. It has been seen as a method of eliminating political rivals and shoring up his political position amid a deteriorating economy and rising tensions with the US over trade, technology and Taiwan.

The abrupt changes in China’s top brass at a time when the country’s economic growth is sluggish have been a concern. So far no replacement for Mr Li has been named even as the country prepared to host foreign defence officials at the Beijing Xiangshan Forum on 29-31 October. The 65-year-old was last seen in public on 19 August and was reportedly under investigation for suspected corruption related to equipment procurement and development, according to reports.