China Expels 3rd Politburo Member Since 2022 as Xi Purge Hits First Civilian
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jul 17
China Expels 3rd Politburo Member Since 2022 as Xi Purge Hits First Civilian
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jul 17
Summary
Ma Xingrui was expelled from the Communist Party on Tuesday after an April investigation, removing the former Xinjiang party chief from China’s top political ranks.
The party’s discipline watchdog accused the 67-year-old of corruption, abuse of power, taking gifts and bribes, arranging benefits in appointments, aiding relatives’ profiteering and trading political favors for sex.
Ma is the first civilian Politburo member purged in this round of Xi Jinping’s crackdown; the two others removed since 2022 were military officials Zhang Youxia and He Weidong.
Analysts said the notice lacked the usual language about disloyalty or political ambition, suggesting corruption charges alone now suffice for severe punishment under Xi.
The case widens pressure around Ma’s network after former subordinates Zhang Jianhua and Guo Yonghang were also investigated or expelled, signaling the purge may spread further.
With another top official purged, what hidden power struggle is shaping China’s future leadership?
As Beijing purges top technocrats, will political loyalty now trump competence in managing China's slowing economy?
Is Xi's anti-corruption drive a genuine cleanup or a ruthless campaign to eliminate any potential challenger?
Xi Jinping’s Unprecedented Purge: The 2026 Expulsion of Ma Xingrui and the Intensifying Anti-Corruption Campaign at China’s Highest Levels
Overview
The expulsion of Ma Xingrui, a senior civilian official and former Politburo member, on July 14, 2026, highlights the ongoing intensity of President Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign. Ma faced allegations of corruption, showing that even top leaders are not immune to investigation. This move sends a strong message to all officials to strictly follow Party discipline and loyalty, as the campaign is used to enforce control at the highest levels. With Ma being the third Politburo member scrutinized in the current term, the campaign’s reach is unprecedented, reinforcing Xi’s authority and reshaping the political landscape.