Strange Developments Near Beijing Are Raising New Questions About Xi

Jun 05, 2026 - 09:49

For years, Xi Jinping's control over the PLA was considered one of the foundations of his power. But several recent developments near Beijing are raising new questions. A trusted Xi ally was suddenly removed from one of China's most strategically important cities. A key military unit responsible for protecting the capital has introduced unprecedented transparency measures that weaken traditional patronage networks. State media has revived the language of "collective leadership," a phrase largely absent during the Xi era. And a curious article praising a general who voluntarily gave up power has caught the attention of political observers. Are these isolated events, or signs of a deeper shift inside China's military and political system? Let's take a closer look.