China announced today that it is launching an investigation against one of the top leaders of its military high command on suspicion of "serious violations of discipline", which is a common euphemism in China for suspected corrupt practices, reported Agence France-Presse, BTA reported.
"After a preliminary investigation, it was decided to launch an investigation against Zhang Yuxia, one of the vice chairmen of the influential Central Military Commission, as well as Liu Zhengli, chief of staff of the Joint Military Command," China's Defense Ministry said in a statement.
Zhang and Liu, aged 75 and 61, are "suspected of serious violations of discipline and law", The Ministry specified.
The Central Military Commission, headed by President Xi Jinping, is the highest military command body in China. It ensures the party's full control over the army and coordinates national defense.
The commission has two vice-chairmen, and Zhang Yuxia is considered the most influential figure among them due to his experience and position. The second vice-chairman, Zhang Shenming, inherited this post in October last year after his predecessor, He Weidong, was removed from office following the announcement of an investigation into suspected corruption.