OPINION> Commentary
Make probe transparent
(China Daily)
Updated: 2008-11-14 07:51

Zhejiang provincial authorities should publicize more information about the probe into Yang Xianghong's overstay in France in order to prevent malpractices, says an article in Yangtze Evening Post. The following is an excerpt:

The investigation into the overstay by Yang Xianghong, an official from Whenzhou, Zhejiang province, after a business trip to France has gained progress. According to the media reports based on reliable sources, Zhejiang provincial Party committee has expelled Yang from the Communist Party of China and removed him from his office.

It's no doubt necessary and legal to remove Yang from the Party membership and public office. But it seems that there is a need for more transparency about this case. For one thing, the news is yet to be confirmed by the authorities and was only offered by inside sources; for another, the reason of his removal also has not been made public.

This way of punishing officials will have negative impact. First, it doesn't help clarify the truth about Yang's case and protect the public's right to be informed; thus, it will create a breeding ground for rumors.

Second, it doesn't help the in-depth probe into Yang's case. Further investigations are of course needed to find out the real reason behind his overstay, but it doesn't mean the local discipline inspection commission has any reason to keep the information from the general public.

According to a report from the Oriental Outlook, someone in Wenzhou told journalists that "many officials in the political circle of Wenzhou hope that Yang can remain overseas". These officials belong to the same interest group and it is time for them to be kicked down the ladder, said the source. "His return is sure to get many people involved," the source said.

(China Daily 11/14/2008 page8)