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Xi Can Never Trust His Own Military.

  • Published In: Foreign Policy, 2026, n. 260. P. 5 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Yuwen, Deng 3 of 3

Abstract

The article analyzes Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s consolidation of power within the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) through the Central Military Commission (CMC) chairman responsibility system, which centralizes absolute control over the military under Xi as chairman. While this system aims to enforce personal loyalty and tighten discipline, it creates structural contradictions because Xi must rely on vice chairmen—trusted deputies with professional expertise—who can develop their own power bases and networks, potentially diluting Xi’s direct control. The resulting tension has led to intensified anti-corruption purges targeting senior generals, often justified by concerns over loyalty and information control rather than solely financial misconduct. This dynamic reflects an intensified autocracy with tighter political control over the military, distinct from classic totalitarianism, emphasizing party and chairman loyalty rather than mass societal transformation. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Foreign Policy. 2026/04, Issue 260, p5
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Literature and Writing
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0015-7228
  • Accession Number:192333775
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