High-Ranking Chinese Admiral Investigated for Alleged Corruption

The recent suspension of Admiral Miao Hua, a senior Chinese military official, highlights the persistent allegations of corruption within China's armed forces, undercutting Xi Jinping's extensive anti-corruption efforts.

A senior military commander in China, Admiral Miao Hua, has been placed under investigation for severe breaches of discipline, a term often associated with corruption. This announcement came from China's Ministry of National Defense during a briefing, underscoring continued issues of graft at the highest levels of the military, despite the government’s pledges for stricter oversight.

Admiral Miao, who has held influential positions since 2017, including leadership of the Central Military Commission's Political Work Department, faced scrutiny following the earlier denouncement of two former defense ministers for similar allegations. Senior Colonel Wu Qian confirmed the investigation but did not disclose specifics regarding the accusations.

Experts highlight the seriousness of Miao's position, given he oversees political adherence within the military, making his case more critical than that of civilian defense leaders who manage budgets without command authority. Former U.S. Defense official Drew Thompson noted that Miao's role as the political chief amplifies the significance of the allegations against him.

Xi Jinping has been actively pursuing an anti-corruption drive for years, aiming to purify the military ranks, yet incidents like Miao's suspension reveal that corruption remains rampant, raising questions about the effectiveness of these efforts. As the investigation unfolds, it could further influence China's military structure and governance.