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Headed notably by generals like Chen and retired officer Li Yuan, this faction is central due to its control of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). They hold formidable influence, especially now, with the military commanding the ultimate leverage in China's internal politics.
The rivalry between Xi and military leader Jiang Zemin (known as the Jiang faction) has historically been tense. Recently, a faction led by Jiang’s allies, including General Zhang and Leo Yuan, quietly initiated a soft military coup, purging Xi loyalists such as Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, He Dong. This alliance aims to force Xi out and restore military influence—an effective power grab driven by fears that Xi's leadership has compromised national stability.