Ma Xingrui, a member of Communist Party of China Politburo, is under investigation for suspected “serious violation of law and discipline”, according to China’s anti-corruption watchdog.

The probe marks the latest move in Xi Jinping’s sweeping anti-graft campaign, which has increasingly targeted senior officials at the highest levels of the party.

China’s Central Commission for Discipline Inspection said Ma is undergoing disciplinary review and supervisory investigation but did not provide further details.

Expanding Anti-Graft Campaign

The investigation underscores Beijing’s continued efforts to root out corruption within its political elite, including sitting members of the Politburo the core decision-making body of the ruling party.

Such high-level probes remain rare and signal the leadership’s intent to maintain strict internal discipline.

Recent High-Level Probes

Ma’s case follows scrutiny of another senior figure, Zhang Youxia, who came under investigation earlier this year.

The removal of He Weidong over corruption allegations last year had already reduced the Politburo’s strength, highlighting the widening scope of the crackdown.

Both Ma and Zhang technically retain their positions while investigations are ongoing.

Disappearance from Public View

Ma’s last known public appearance was at a key Communist Party meeting in October. Since then, he has been notably absent from major state events, including the annual parliamentary session — a pattern often seen in cases involving disciplinary action.

He was also removed from his previous role as Xinjiang party chief in July, signalling potential shifts within the party’s internal hierarchy.

Political Implications

The latest probe reflects the continued centralisation of authority under Xi, as well as the use of anti-corruption mechanisms to enforce political discipline.

Analysts note that such investigations serve both as governance tools and as signals of internal power consolidation within China’s leadership.

(with inputs from Reuters)