Defense News ,China :- China has officially put an end to months of uncertainty by appointing former naval commander Dong Jun as its new defense minister, CNN reported on Friday. This move comes two months after the removal of his predecessor, Li Shangfu, from the role, a decision that was made without providing any explanation following Li extended absence from public view.
The announcement of Dong appointment was made by China top legislative body, often referred to as the "rubber-stamp" legislature, during its final session of the year, as reported by Chinese state media Xinhua. Dong Jun, who took over as the top commander of the Chinese People Liberation Army (PLA) Navy in 2021, now assumes the position of defense minister.
Before ascending to the navy top command, Dong had served as the deputy commander of the PLA Southern Theatre Command, responsible for overseeing operations in the South China Sea. The appointment of Dong comes on the heels of former submarine commander Hu Zhongming being named as the new PLA Navy commander during a ceremony where he was promoted to admiral.
The prolonged speculation surrounding the vacant defense minister position stemmed from the unexplained removal of Li Shangfu in October, who had assumed the role in March. Li disappearance from public view since late August had fueled intense speculation about his fate.
This development is part of a series of unexplained personnel changes that have unsettled China upper ranks, including the dramatic removal of former Foreign Minister Qin Gang in July and the dismissal of two leaders from the PLA Rocket Force. These shakeups occurred without any official explanations.
Prior to Li disappearance, Chinese President Xi Jinping had convened a meeting with the military top brass in Beijing, emphasizing the importance of political loyalty, discipline, and the Communist Party "absolute leadership" over the armed forces, according to CNN.
The Chinese government has consistently refrained from commenting on Li whereabouts and the reasons behind his absence. The announcement of Dong appointment on Friday provided no additional details.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Li was reportedly taken away by authorities for questioning in September. It is essential to note that the role of China defense minister is largely ceremonial, serving as the public face for military diplomacy with other nations. In contrast to counterparts like the U.S. defense secretary, the Chinese defense minister does not possess command power, as that authority lies with the Central Military Commission, as reported by CNN.
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