The Central Military Commission is the nation’s leading military organ and commander of its armed forces. The armed forces of the PRC consist of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, the Chinese People’s Armed Police Force and the Militia. The PLA is the standing army of the state. The main tasks of the Armed Police Force include performing guard duties and maintaining public order. The Militia is an armed force of the masses who, when not on duty, remain engaged in their normal productive activities.
The Central Military Commission is composed of a chairman, vice-chairmen and other members. The current chairman is Jiang Zemin.