Another top Chinese official has disappeared from the country, reigniting speculation about a possible anti-corruption sweep. The ‘Wall Street Journal’ reported that Li Shangfu, China’s defence minister, was detained by authorities last week for questioning.
In March this year, he was named China’s top leader. According to CNN, Li is still listed as China's "Defence Minister, State Councilor and Central Military Commission member" on China's official and military websites. The BBC said that Li Shangfu is an aerospace engineer and began his career at a satellite and rocket launch centre.
Li Shangfu was the head of CMC’s Equipment Development Department, responsible for weapons procurement, for a period of five years beginning in 2017. In 2018, Li was sanctioned by the United States after China purchased Russian weapons, according to a CNN report.
Mr Li’s most recent public event was in Beijing on August 29, where he delivered the keynote address at the China Africa Peace and Security Forum.
© Copyright 2023. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
