Xi Jinping takes firm command of China's military

Earlier this month Xi Jinping became the new General Secretary of China's ruling Communist Party. His unique background means he can also quickly assert his control over the world's largest army, according to the South China Morning Post,

Mr Xi, currently a vice-president until the National People's Congress - China's parliament - in the spring, has apparently surprised many with how quickly he has established his authority over the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

It was somewhat unexpected that outgoing Party leader Hu Jintao would also cede his position as head of the military to Mr Xi so quickly, given that after becoming General Secretary in 2002, Mr Hu had to wait until 2004 to assume command of the PLA.

One week after taking over as chairman of the party's Central Military Commission (CMC), Xi demonstrated his grip on power by appointing his PLA general on Friday.

Read the full report on gbtimes.com.

Keep up to date with the latest on China's leadership change.