Chinese President Xi Jinping made headlines after praising the loyalty of ground-level military officers in the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) during a public appearance on Wednesday, following the dismissal of several top commanders. This commendation occurs as part of a broader campaign against corruption and a move to reinforce political loyalty within the military. Jinping, describing the past year as unprecedented, claims significant political reforms have been made within the army, effectively addressing various risks and challenges faced by the nation.

In his remarks, Jinping emphasized the need for military officers and soldiers to demonstrate unwavering loyalty to the Communist Party, highlighting their honesty and capability in fulfilling their duties. His statements reflect a concerted effort to consolidate power and induce a culture of compliance among the ranks of the PLA, especially among those at the ground level. This focus on loyalty and performance comes at a time when the army is undergoing a transformation to enhance its operational effectiveness and credibility amid ongoing anti-corruption efforts.

The ongoing crackdown on corruption within the Chinese military has been a hallmark of Jinping's governance since 2023, exemplifying his strategy of reinforcing party control throughout various state apparatus, including the military. High-profile dismissals, such as that of several commanders from the Rocket Force and Defense Minister Li Shangfu, signify the security challenges and systemic issues facing the PLA, along with Jinping's commitment to eradicating corruption, which he characterizes as a revolutionary change necessary for the army's integrity and trustworthiness.