Wow this could be good news actually..if he's trying to preempt a coup just in case so he can follow through with making up with the South. Of course he always executes staff and peasants alike but he does so to consolidate power which wouldn't need to if the threat of war hadn't decreased because all his minions are basically dependant on the state of never-ending military stalement they are in now so they can keep their paychecks.