China Expels Two Top Generals Over Corruption Allegations

China has expelled Gen. Zhang Youxia, the second-ranking officer in the country's military hierarchy, and Gen. Liu Zhenli from the ruling Communist Party and the military over alleged corruption and disloyalty, according to the official Xinhua News Agency. The decision was approved by the Politburo at a meeting on September 21, and both cases have been referred to military prosecutors. Zhang served as vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, the supreme command body that controls the People's Liberation Army, making him China's highest-ranking general and second only to President Xi Jinping. Liu was a member of the commission and chief of staff of its Joint Staff Department. Official documents cited by Xinhua allege that the two men seriously violated political discipline and political rules, formed cliques and factions, and were disloyal and dishonest to the Party. They are also accused of abusing their positions to help others obtain postings and promotions while accepting exceptionally large sums of money.