Beijing: China has sentenced two former defence ministers, Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu, to death with a two year reprieve in one of the country’s biggest military corruption cases in recent years. The decision, announced by Chinese state media on Wednesday, is being seen as a strong message from President Xi Jinping as his government continues a sweeping campaign against corruption inside the armed forces.
According to official reports released through the state run Xinhua News Agency, military courts found both men guilty of accepting large bribes and abusing their positions for personal gain. The courts said the crimes committed by the two former ministers caused serious damage to the image and integrity of the Chinese military.
Wei Fenghe served as China’s defence minister from 2018 to 2023. Before taking up the role, he was commander of the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force, which is responsible for China’s missile and nuclear weapons systems. Investigators accused Wei of using his influence to help others secure promotions and appointments in exchange for money and gifts.
Li Shangfu became defence minister in March 2023 after succeeding Wei. However, his time in office was short. He disappeared from public events only a few months after taking charge, leading to widespread speculation both inside China and internationally. Later, the Chinese government officially removed him from office without giving detailed public explanations at the time.
Li was accused of accepting and offering bribes while overseeing military equipment procurement and development projects. Chinese authorities also accused him of failing to properly carry out his political responsibilities. Before becoming defence minister, Li played an important role in China’s military technology and weapons development programs.
Under Chinese law, a death sentence with a two year reprieve usually means the sentence is suspended for two years and then reduced to life imprisonment if the person does not commit further crimes during that period. Chinese authorities said both former ministers would eventually serve life sentences without the possibility of parole. Their personal assets have reportedly been confiscated and they have also lost their political rights for life.
The sentencing of two former defence ministers at the same time is highly unusual and highlights the seriousness of the corruption investigations taking place within China’s military leadership. Analysts say the crackdown reflects growing concern in Beijing about corruption in defence procurement, military promotions and the Rocket Force.
Over the past two years, several senior military officials have been removed from office or investigated. Many of them were linked to the Rocket Force or the Central Military Commission, which is China’s top military decision making body. The investigations have raised questions about internal discipline and trust within the armed forces at a time when China is increasing its military presence in the Asia Pacific region.
President Xi Jinping has repeatedly described corruption as a threat to national security and military strength. Since coming to power in 2012, he has launched one of the largest anti corruption campaigns in modern Chinese history. Thousands of government officials, business leaders and military officers have faced investigations, punishments or prison sentences during the campaign.
Experts believe the latest convictions are not only about fighting corruption but also about strengthening Xi’s control over the military leadership. Some analysts say the investigations may have temporarily affected military operations and command structures, especially within missile and defence programs.
Despite international attention and criticism over the secrecy surrounding many of these investigations, Chinese authorities insist the anti corruption campaign is necessary to modernise the military and maintain discipline within the armed forces.