Paper Tigers of PLA: Xi Dismantles China’s Central Military Commission
China’s military has undergone a major transformation under President Xi Jinping, particularly through the restructuring of the Central Military Commission (CMC). Once dominated by powerful generals with entrenched influence, the CMC has been systematically reorganised to reduce corruption and eliminate internal power centres. Xi’s reforms aim to ensure direct political loyalty to the Communist Party while tightening civilian control over the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Several senior officers were removed, sidelined, or investigated, weakening traditional military hierarchies that once operated with relative autonomy. While these reforms project an image of a disciplined and modern force, they also expose internal vulnerabilities, including trust deficits and operational uncertainty. Critics argue that excessive centralisation may limit battlefield flexibility, while supporters believe it strengthens command unity. Overall, Xi’s actions reflect a strategic effort to consolidate authority, reinforce ideological control, and reshape the PLA into a force aligned closely with his long-term vision for China’s national security.
The Key points
- Xi Jinping reduced independent power within the PLA leadership.
- Central Military Commission structure was heavily reorganised.
- Senior generals faced investigations and removals.
- Anti-corruption campaigns weakened entrenched military networks.
- Political loyalty to the Communist Party was prioritised.
- Civilian oversight over the military increased significantly.
- Traditional command hierarchies lost influence.
- Reforms aimed to modernise military governance.
- Centralisation raised concerns about operational flexibility.
- Changes reflect Xi’s long-term national security strategy.
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