President Xi tightens internal discipline and expels 'sick trees' from the party

The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China held a significant plenum, marking a record exclusion of 33 high-ranking members, indicating President Xi's tightening control. Nearly a quarter of the 376 seats were vacant, suggesting ongoing investigations or political purges. Zhang Youxia, a former military leader, was expelled amid corruption allegations. Notably, Zhang Shengmin, responsible for military corruption investigations, was promoted to the Politburo. Xi's anti-corruption campaign continues to target both low-level officials and high-ranking figures, with historical precedents of purges in Chinese politics. The meeting emphasized the need for officials with strong political conviction and strict discipline, reflecting Xi's ongoing consolidation of power.