China promotes general responsible for military corruption fight to the Politburo

The Chinese Communist Party has promoted General Zhang Shengmin, a key figure in the military anti-corruption campaign, to the Politburo. This decision follows a plenary session marked by political and military purges. Zhang, who previously led the military anti-corruption efforts, is now one of only two members of the Central Military Commission. The promotion is notable as such appointments typically occur during the party's five-year congresses. The plenary also confirmed an investigation into Liu Jianchao, a former high-ranking official, and ratified disciplinary sanctions against 34 leaders. The upcoming 21st National Congress of the PCC is scheduled for the second half of 2027, expected to bring significant leadership changes.