Expulsion of Ma Xingrui from Chinese Politburo

The Chinese Communist Party expelled Ma Xingrui on Tuesday, accusing him of corruption and abusing his power for personal favors. Ma, who previously served as the party secretary for China’s northwestern region of Xinjiang, has become the third Politburo member removed under Xi Jinping’s leadership. This move is part of Xi’s intensified anti-corruption efforts at the highest levels of government.

Ma Xingrui’s political downfall marks a significant shift from his once-prominent status. He was considered one of China’s most promising political figures, known for his work as an engineer and scientist. His removal highlights the most extensive purge of the Politburo since reforms implemented by Deng Xiaoping in the 1980s. With Ma’s expulsion, the Politburo now consists of 21 members, following recent removals of military officials He Weidong and Zhang Youxia.

Steve Tsang, director of the SOAS China Institute in London, noted the seriousness required for a Politburo member to lose their position in the past. However, Xi Jinping’s approach has changed this dynamic. Tsang commented, “This was changed by Xi. Now, Politburo members drop like bowling pins.” Xi’s actions send a strong message to top officials to comply with directives.