A People’s Daily article revealed that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is overloaded with “grassroots officers” (i.e. low-level officers).
The article described the story of Liu Ziyao, a Platoon Leader at a certain Air Force unit. After graduating from a military academy, Liu started as a platoon leader and led his platoon to win a collective third-class merit. Four years ago, Liu met the requirements for promotion, but all positions at the next level – Deputy Company Commander – were fully staffed. Thus, Liu had to stay at the level of platoon leader. Soon, a new platoon leader was assigned to his platoon; the platoon now has has two platoon leaders managing the twenty-some members. This led to internal friction [within the platoon].
Some long-time platoon leaders eventually lose their sense of initiative and enthusiasm for their work, the article said.
Last year, the Chinese Air Force implemented measures to develop its “grassroots officers.” The most important adjustment was the recommendation of outstanding platoon leaders for internships related to other positions such as Company Political Instructor (指导员) or Battalion Staff Officer (营参谋). Liu Ziyao has become an “intern Political Instructor” for a company was able to gain experience in that position.
Another “grassroots” platoon leader interned as a battalion staff officer, then later interned at a staff position in the headquarters, and eventually becoming a full-fledged staff officer.
Source: People’s Daily, July 26, 2024
http://military.people.com.cn/n1/2024/0726/c1011-40286059.html