CCP Military Morale Is Shaken by 2 Former Defense Ministers’ Suspended Death Sentences: Insiders Suspended death sentences for two former Chinese defense ministers, Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe, have reportedly caused significant fear within the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Both officials were found guilty of offenses including bribery. In China, a suspended death sentence typically results in life imprisonment if no further crimes are committed during the reprieve period.

• Two former Chinese defense ministers, Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe, have received suspended death sentences.
• The sentences, reported by Xinhua on May 7, were for offenses including accepting and offering bribes.
• Insiders claim these sentences have caused shockwaves and fear among mid-level and junior PLA officers.
• A suspended death sentence in China is usually commuted to life imprisonment if no new offenses occur during the reprieve period.