China's Power Shift: Loyalty and Disappearances in Beijing

China has officially removed its defence minister, Li Shangfu, who has not been seen in public since late August. President Xi Jinping signed a decree dismissing Li from his post, as well as his other political positions. This follows the removal of Foreign Minister Qin Gang in July. While the reasons for their removals remain undisclosed, it has raised questions about President Xi's circle of power and his commitment to eliminating corruption. The lack of transparency in China's political and legal systems leaves uncertainty regarding whether Li and Qin will face prosecution or other legal sanctions.