Former Hainan official expelled for disciplinary and legal violations

Former Hainan official Chen Xiaobo has been ousted from the Communist Party and removed from his governmental post after a disciplinary probe uncovered disciplinary and legal violations, according to an announcement released Monday by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission.

59-year-old Chen used to be the deputy secretary of the Hainan provincial commission for discipline inspection and the deputy director of the provincial supervisory commission of Hainan.

An investigation revealed that Chen had obstructed organizational scrutiny, engaged in superstitious activities and disregarded ethical standards by accepting lavish banquets that could compromise the impartial execution of official duties. He failed to adhere to organizational principles, omitted reporting personal matters as required, misled during organizational discussions, abused his authority to benefit others in personnel appointments and accepted illicit gains.

Additionally, he intervened improperly in disciplinary and law enforcement activities, leaked confidential information and exploited his power for personal gain through corrupt practices such as engaging in illicit transactions in land acquisition and project contracting and accepting substantial bribes.

Chen's actions violated the regulations of the Communist Party of China, constituting severe breaches of duty and suspected bribery crimes, according to the announcement.

In accordance with relevant regulations and with deliberation and approval by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection decided to expel Chen from the Party, dismiss him from public office and revoke his delegate status for the Eighth CPC Hainan Provincial Congress.

Chen's ill-gotten gains were confiscated. His suspected criminal activities and related assets were referred to the procuratorial authorities for legal scrutiny and prosecution.