Chinese President Xi Jinping is reasserting his ideological stance on the People's Liberation Army (PLA), insisting on absolute loyalty to the Communist Party amid ongoing anti-corruption efforts. This call for unwavering allegiance comes just weeks after a prominent military figure was investigated for misconduct. During the recent National People's Congress (NPC), Xi highlighted the significance of combating corruption within the military ranks and underscored the importance of reinforcing the Party’s leadership over the armed forces.

The president's remarks indicate a continuation of a campaign known as 'political rectification,' which has been a key focus since Xi took office in 2012. Xi noted that this initiative, aimed primarily at rooting out corruption and reinforcing the Communist Party's authority, has yielded considerable progress. The emphasis on loyalty to the Party is crucial not only for maintaining discipline within the military but also for consolidating Xi's power in the broader political landscape of China.

The push for military loyalty and anti-corruption comes at a time when the leadership is wary of the potential threats both domestically and internationally. By instilling a culture of allegiance and ethical conduct within the PLA, Xi aims to ensure that the military remains a reliable tool of the state. The CCP's focus on these issues reflects a strategic move to strengthen its hold over the military while addressing any internal challenges that could undermine its authority in the future.