China has announced the sentence of former defence ministers Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu. They were sentenced to death with a two-year stay of execution for corruption and serious violations of party discipline.
China's former defence ministers sentenced to death
Former Chinese defence ministers sentenced in Beijing Wei Fenghe (headed the agency in 2018-2023) and his successor Li Shanfu (2023). Both were found guilty of multimillion-dollar bribery and «serious violation of party discipline», which was the basis for the death sentence. As reported by official Xinhua news agency“, The execution of the sentence is postponed for two years. If during this time the convicts demonstrate «reformation» and do not commit new crimes, the death penalty is usually commuted to life imprisonment.
This decision was one of the most high-profile in China's recent history, as high-ranking military officials were put on trial. The verdict underscores the rigidity of the state's anti-corruption policy and the personal control of the Chinese leadership over the security forces.
Large-scale purge in military circles
The case against Wei Fenghe and Li Shanfu is seen as part of a large-scale anti-corruption campaign conducted by the Chinese leader Xi Jinping. According to the investigation, both former ministers benefited from the procurement of military equipment. The investigation paid particular attention to contracts related to the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Missile Force, the country's strategic nuclear force.
Official sources claim that corruption could have affected the army's combat readiness. In particular, the quality of fuel for missiles and the serviceability of silo launchers. This caused concern among the military leadership and prompted decisive action by the party authorities.
Suspension of execution and its consequences
Death sentence suspended sentences are a common practice in China for high-level corruption offences. In a harsh prison environment, it is virtually impossible for convicts to commit new offences, so sentences are often commuted to life imprisonment. This approach allows the authorities to demonstrate their resolve in the fight against corruption, while leaving room for «re-education».
The case of Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu served as a warning to other officials and military leaders. The campaign against corruption in the highest echelons of power, especially in the security forces, continues, tightening control over the country's defence sector.
Why it matters
The sentencing of two former Chinese defence ministers to death demonstrates the toughness of Beijing's anti-corruption policy. Particular attention is drawn to the fact that the defendants headed the strategically important Missile Force, on which the country's nuclear security depends.
This precedent may have implications not only for China's domestic policy, but also for the international community, as the stability and readiness of the Chinese army affect the balance of power in the region. At the same time, the verdict underscores that even the highest officials are not immune from liability in the event of abuse.
