China said that Miao Hua, a disgraced admiral and member of the powerful Central Military Commission (CMC), was suspected of “legal violations”, suggesting his wrongdoings were more serious than previously thought.
While his expulsion was reported in March, this is the first official acknowledgement of possible legal misconduct by Miao.
Miao previously served as the head of the CMC’s political work department – an influential position responsible for ideological control and personnel management within the People’s Liberation Army.
In late November, he was placed under investigation for alleged “serious violations of discipline” – a type of misconduct that could lead to conviction on corruption charges.
However, the recent mention of “legal violations” suggests a potentially more severe accusation.
No further details about the case have been disclosed, underscoring the sensitive nature of military investigations in China. Corruption cases involving the military are handled by a separate military justice system, which is more opaque compared to civilian institutions.