China's Communist Party has dealt a significant blow to President Xi Jinping's inner circle with the expulsion of Ma Xingrui, one of its most senior officials and a member of the elite Politburo. The move marks the third purge of a Politburo member since 2022 as part of Xi's ongoing anti-corruption campaign. Ma, who previously served as Communist Party secretary for Xinjiang, has faced accusations of corruption, abuse of power, and trading political favours, including for sex.
The expulsion is notable not only because it involves a civilian official but also because it reflects the increasing intolerance of Xi's regime towards even its most senior members. Joseph Torigian, an associate professor at American University and historian of Chinese elite politics, highlighted the significance of Ma's removal, comparing it to the 1976 purge of the 'Gang of Four' following Mao Zedong's death.
China's Central Commission for Discipline Inspection detailed accusations against Ma, including seeking benefits for others in official appointments, improperly accepting gifts and bribes, and facilitating profit for relatives and associates through his position. The commission also cited his alleged role in "family corruption." Christopher Nye, a non-resident fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, observed that the official announcement lacked typical politically charged language, implying reduced political tolerance from Xi Jinping.
The reference to Ma's alleged misconduct dating back to 2012 is also significant, as it links his behaviour to the period after Xi assumed leadership. Nye explained that while Xi may not have been interested in events prior to 2012, anything occurring afterwards could now form grounds for a purge.
Ma, aged 67, was once considered a rising star in Chinese politics, having made his name as an aerospace engineer and technocrat at the state-owned China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. His expulsion sends a clear message from Xi Jinping: even the most senior members of the Politburo are not immune to the consequences of corruption and abuse of power.