Xi opens Communist Party plenum focused on governance and discipline

China’s Communist Party has begun a four-day meeting focused on internal governance, discipline and fighting corruption. Coverage also examines how the gathering could reinforce Xi Jinping’s authority ahead of the next leadership reshuffle.

• The Central Committee is holding its fifth plenum since the current membership was formed in 2022. The four-day gathering is taking place behind closed doors.· 1 source
• Xi briefed members on a draft document addressing the party’s governing capacity, complacency and corruption, according to Xinhua’s account.· 1 source
• The meeting is scheduled to conclude on October 29, 2026. Few details are expected to become public before then.· 1 source
• Analysts describe the gathering as a chance for Xi to demonstrate continued control before next year’s leadership reshuffle, when he is expected to retain the top job for a fourth term.· 1 source
• The BBC reports that recent purges have reduced the seven-member Central Military Commission to Xi and one general. It identifies the plenum as an opportunity to appoint new officers.· 1 source