In a resolute move, China’s Communist Party has pledged to ramp up its battle against corruption heading into the 2026-2030 Five-Year Plan. The announcement came via a communique from the ongoing fifth plenary meeting of the CPC Central Discipline Inspection Commission’s 20th Central Committee in Beijing.
Xi Jinping, the nation’s leader holding multiple top posts including party general secretary and military chief, spoke at the event, emphasizing stricter party rules and integrity. Xinhua reported his focus on fortifying discipline to underpin national progress.
Echoing this, People’s Daily declared that no matter the push for economic and tech breakthroughs, the party’s spotless reputation remains paramount. Xi sees corruption as a mortal threat to the CPC’s lifeblood, a stance driving massive reforms since he took helm in 2012.
These efforts ensure the party prioritizes public welfare over self-interest, targeting not just bribes but also inefficiencies like poor oversight, waste, procrastination, and carelessness.
The pace has quickened dramatically: 2025 saw 65 high-level detentions, surpassing 2024’s 58 by 12% and marking a decade-high. From 18 cases in 2020 to 65 now, the trend underscores expanding probes into politics, finance, and defense.
Military shake-ups stand out, with unprecedented removals including ex-Vice Chairman He Weidong. Beijing’s alarm over corruption hindering modernization efforts is evident.
Observers note this surge uncovers entrenched issues while affirming Xi’s determination to consolidate power during economic slowdowns, domestic policy strains, and international pressures. Sweeps have hit provincial bosses, ministries, enterprises, academia, and finance—Yi Huiman’s downfall notably spooked markets.
Looking ahead, this campaign signals China’s commitment to purging rot, fostering a cleaner governance model to navigate future uncertainties and maintain CPC dominance.
