Dismissal of 19 members of the Chinese Parliament, including 9 military personnel

China’s National People’s Congress (Parliament) dismissed 19 members, including 9 military officers, a week before the start of its annual meeting.

The announcement, issued late on Thursday, did not explain the reason for the removal of representatives, but such dismissals are generally linked to corruption investigations.

An anti-corruption campaign launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping has shown no let up after more than a decade. The military has been targeted in recent years, including the dismissal of its commander last month, as Xi seeks to reform and modernize the armed forces.

Analysts say the campaign also represents a way for Xi, in his 14th year in power, to remove potential opponents and ensure loyalty among his subordinates.

The dismissals are not likely to have a significant impact on the meeting of the National People’s Congress, which will launch its annual meeting next Thursday and is expected to last a week.