China hands suspended-death sentences to two former defense ministers over bribes

A Chinese military court sentenced ex-defense ministers Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu to death with a two-year reprieve for bribery (Li’s case included both accepting and offering bribes). Such sentences are commonly commuted to life, reflecting President Xi Jinping’s ongoing anti-corruption purge and moves to consolidate loyalty within the top ranks, including a dramatically downsized Central Military Commission. Li Shangfu has since been replaced by Dong Jun as defense minister; the broader political motive remains to strengthen Xi’s control, with unclear policy disagreements shaping the cases.