An unprecedented number of high-level expulsions marked the conclusion of China's major annual political gathering, with attendance dropping below 300 for the first time in 14 years of leadership under Xi Jinping. BBC News reported that 33 members were expelled from the Communist Party during the four-day closed-door meeting in Beijing, bringing the total number of removals under Xi's third term to a record 51.

According to a communique issued at the end of the gathering, 16 of the 33 expelled members belong to the military. BBC News noted that specific charges remain unclear beyond broad allegations of "serious disciplinary and legal violations." High-ranking officials named in official statements regarding disciplinary actions this year include former Xinjiang party chief Ma Xingrui, alongside former top generals Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli.

Background

BBC News reported that the fifth plenum was attended by 279 Central Committee members, a notable decline from 315 attendees at the fourth plenum in October 2025 and 364 at the third plenum in July 2024. The current Central Committee originally commenced its term in 2022 with more than 370 members.

Since taking office in 2012, Xi Jinping has prioritized the fight against corruption, viewing it as the "biggest threat" to the party. Observers cited by BBC News, including Chong Ja Ian of Carnegie China, indicate that the ongoing campaign has evolved into an effort to consolidate and maintain authority rather than merely address graft. Furthermore, China's top anti-corruption watchdog reported that 680,000 individuals across the party apparatus faced disciplinary action in the first nine months of the year.

Why it matters

For international observers and nations monitoring governance and internal political stability in major global powers, shifts in leadership structures and military command echelons offer key insights into state priorities. As party leadership emphasizes strict self-governance and addresses internal discipline, understanding these developments provides context on how major governments manage administrative oversight and institutional authority.