The disappearance of Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu continues to raise many questions and speculations. While more than two weeks have passed since his last public appearance, Chinese authorities remain silent on the minister’s fate. This disappearance comes in a context where several influential members of the Chinese army have also disappeared in recent months.
Some sources raise the possibility of a corruption investigation targeting Li Shangfu, which would have led the authorities to discreetly remove him from his post. Indeed, since coming to power, Xi Jinping has made the fight against corruption a top priority, including within the army. Many senior officials in the Chinese army have been dismissed in recent years.
However, other voices are being raised to point out that these could be internal political struggles within the Chinese regime. The disappearance of Li Shangfu comes after that of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and several generals of the Chinese army. Some therefore see it as a sign of tensions and rivalries within those in power.
Whatever the real reason for Li Shangfu’s disappearance, it speaks to the climate of suspicion and uncertainty that reigns in China. Chinese authorities are known for their opacity and strict control of information. It is therefore difficult to disentangle fact from fiction in this matter.
In conclusion, the disappearance of Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu raises many questions as to the real reason for his absence. Corruption or internal political struggles, only the coming days will perhaps be able to provide answers. In the meantime, this affair once again reminds us of the climate of suspicion that weighs on Chinese power and the difficulty of knowing the truth in this country where freedom of expression is limited.