China ousts defense minister, leaves post vacant

China’s Defense Minister Li Shangfu attends the 20th IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore June 2, 2023. REUTERS/Caroline Chia/File Photo

BEIJING  – China removed General Li Shangfu as defense minister and state councillor on Tuesday, in the second ousting of a senior leader in three months.

Qin Gang, who was removed as foreign minister in July, was also stripped of his state councillor position on Tuesday.

China’s top legislators, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, approved the removal of both men, state broadcaster CCTV reported.

No explanation was given for the removal. No replacement for Li was appointed, leaving the country without a defence minister as it prepares to host foreign defense officials at the Beijing Xiangshan Forum on Oct. 29-31.

Li Shangfu disappeared from public view two months ago.

Reuters reported last month that Li was under investigation for corruption related to equipment procurement and development.

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