Fall of Chinese Politburo Member Ma Xingrui Signals Intensifying Focus on Loyalty: Insiders

The sudden investigation into a once-rising aerospace-linked official points to deeper political tensions and a tightening climate within the CCP.

A Chinese paramilitary policeman stands guard in Tiananmen Square before the introduction of the Chinese Communist Party's Politburo Standing Committee, China's top decision-making body, on a polluted day in Beijing on Oct. 25, 2017. Greg Baker/AFP via Getty Images

The announcement that a senior Chinese official is under investigation has sent ripples through China’s political establishment, fueling speculation about shifting power dynamics within the top ranks of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), according to insiders.

Chinese state media outlet Xinhua News Agency reported on April 3 that Ma Xingrui, a member of the CCP’s second-highest decision-making body, the Politburo, is being investigated by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), the Party’s top anti-corruption body. The report did not provide further information on the matter.