China Sentences Two Former Defense Ministers to Death
Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe received suspended death sentences as part of President Xi Jinping's anti-corruption drive.
China has sentenced two former defense ministers, Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe, to death with a two-year suspension. This means their sentences could be commuted to life imprisonment if they do not commit further crimes.
The sentences were handed down by a Beijing court. The court found both men guilty of bribery and other offenses. They were also stripped of their military rank and deprived of political rights.
Li Shangfu served as defense minister from March 2023 until his removal from the post in October 2023. Wei Fenghe held the position before Li, serving from 2018 to 2023. Both men were previously members of the Central Military Commission, the body that oversees China's armed forces.
These sentences are part of President Xi Jinping's extensive anti-corruption campaign. This campaign began shortly after Xi came to power over a decade ago. It has led to the investigation and punishment of thousands of officials across various levels of government and the military.
The specific details of the charges against Li and Wei have not been fully disclosed by Chinese authorities. However, reports suggest the investigations focused on financial misconduct and abuse of power. The outcomes for Li and Wei are seen as a strong signal of the campaign's continued reach.
Reporting incorporates material from a third-party source. Original
