China sentences two former defense ministers for corruption
China recently sentenced two former defense ministers, Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu, to suspended death penalties for corruption charges. These sentences, issued by a military tribunal on May 7, 2026, include a two-year reprieve, after which they are likely to be commuted to life imprisonment.
Wei Fenghe, defense minister from 2018 to 2023, was convicted of accepting bribes. Li Shangfu, his successor until late 2023, faced charges for both accepting and offering bribes. Both had been expelled from the Communist Party in 2024 amid investigations.
The rulings stem from President Xi Jinping’s long-running anti-corruption campaign targeting military leaders, including those linked to the Central Military Commission and Rocket Force. This purge has removed numerous high-ranking officials, aiming to enforce loyalty and discipline.
