The 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan in World War II is intended to display both the strength and solidarity of the People’s Liberation Army.
But just two weeks before it is set to take place, Beijing announced that former navy chief of staff Li Hanjun – a veteran who took part in similar parades in 1984 and 2009 – had been removed as a delegate in the national legislature on suspicion of “serious violations of discipline and law”, a euphemism for corruption.
While some question if the hunt for corruption will hamper the PLA’s war readiness, others argue it shows Beijing’s determination to create a fighting force “capable of winning wars”, as President Xi Jinping has repeatedly emphasised.
The world may be better able to answer this question next week when Beijing showcases its latest weapons and a new generation of commanders.
