A pattern has emerged in China, reminiscent of historical purges, as several high-ranking officials have either vanished or died under mysterious circumstances. This pattern, under President Xi Jinping’s rule, is drawing comparisons to Stalin-like purges, raising alarm about the internal workings of the Chinese Communist Party. The most interesting part is that the people being taken out are not members of an opposing political faction, they are part of Xi’s own apparatus!
One of the most prominent cases is that of Qin Gang, a former foreign minister, whose rapid rise and subsequent disappearance have sparked widespread concern and speculation. His ascent to the role of ambassador to Washi ngton and later as foreign minister was notably swift, indicative of his favor with Xi. However, Qin’s sudden vanishing act after a meeting with foreign dignitaries in June has led to various theories about his fate. Reports suggest he may have been “tortured to death,” a claim that underscores the severity of the situation.
Qin’s case is not isolated. The phenomenon extends to other influential figures in China’s defense and financial sectors. This includes generals responsible for China’s nuclear weapons program and top financial officials. The mysterious nature of these disappearances and deaths, often explained away by the government in vague terms, points to a deeper, more systemic issue within the party’s ranks.
The death of Li Keqiang, the former prime minister and a prominent figure in the Communist hierarchy, under questionable circumstances, has only added to the intrigue. His supposed death from a heart attack, despite having access to top-notch medical care, and the subsequent curtailed public mourning ordered by Xi, have fueled further speculation about the true nature of his demise.
Since 2012, when Xi Jinping took power, there has been a notable increase in the removal of officials. Xi’s own description of this process, targeting both high-ranking “tigers” and lower-level “flies,” initially seemed focused on rooting out corruption. However, the increasing focus on individuals within Xi’s own circle suggests a different motive, possibly rooted in paranoia and a desire to consolidate power, including:
Generals in charge of China’s nuclear weapons program: Several high-ranking military officials responsible for the nuclear weapons program have also vanished.
Senior officials in the Chinese financial sector: These individuals, whose specific names aren’t provided in the source, have also been reported as missing.
Li Yuchao, Liu Guangbin, and Zhang Zhenzhong: Top commanders of China’s “rocket force,” overseeing the country’s nuclear weapons program, who disappeared around the same time as Qin Gang.
Li Shangfu: Appointed as China’s Defense Minister in March, then vanished and was formally dismissed in late October.
The implications of these actions are vast, affecting not only the individuals and their families but also the political stability and global standing of China. The removal of key figures could lead to shifts in foreign policy, economic decisions, and military strategies. This climate of fear and suspicion within the Communist Party is reminiscent of the darkest days of political purges in history.
Observers, both within and outside China, are watching these developments with a mix of concern and interest. The true extent and impact of these purges remain to be seen, but they undoubtedly mark a significant period in China’s contemporary political history.
Some sources say that Xi’s power is tenuous and he may not last much longer. If he is deposed, China may balkanize into many separate states. But Xi is intelligent and ruthless, so we will not count him out.