China has sentenced two former defense ministers to death with a two-year reprieve in a major corruption case. The decision marks another major step in China’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign within the military.
According to Xinhua News Agency, former defense ministers Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu were found guilty of corruption-related charges. Both were accused of taking large bribes and abusing their positions for personal benefit.
The case highlights the strong anti-corruption drive in China under President Xi Jinping. Since taking office in 2012, Xi has focused heavily on removing corruption from the country’s military and government institutions.
The military has remained a major target of the campaign. In recent years, China expanded investigations into the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force. This military branch handles nuclear and conventional missile operations and plays a key role in national defense.
Earlier this year, the crackdown widened further. Senior military leader Zhang Youxia was removed from his position. He had long been seen as one of Xi Jinping’s trusted allies.
Investigators said Li Shangfu accepted large amounts of money in bribes. Reports also claimed he offered bribes to others and used his influence for staff appointments. Officials said his actions violated political responsibilities and damaged the integrity of the military system.
Wei Fenghe faced similar charges. Authorities said he accepted large sums of money and valuable gifts. He was also accused of helping others secure unfair promotions and benefits.
Under the law in China, a death sentence with a two-year reprieve is often reduced to life imprisonment if no further crimes are committed during that period.
According to Xinhua, both former ministers will likely spend the rest of their lives in prison. They will not be eligible for parole or any further sentence reduction.
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The latest verdicts show that China continues to push its anti-corruption campaign deeper into the military ranks, signaling that even senior officials are not beyond accountability.
