Ex-Gansu official expelled from Party and post for serious violations of discipline and law

The former deputy director of the agriculture and rural affairs committee of the Gansu Provincial Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Huo Ronggui, has been expelled from Party and removed from public office for serious violations of discipline and the law, Gansu's discipline authorities announced on Thursday.

They said Huo violated political disciplines and rules when serving as deputy director and director of the Gansu provincial government's general office, deputy secretary-general of the Gansu government and Party chief of the city of Wuwei. 

The authorities said Huo ran counter to decisions on major issues by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, operated small circles in government and business to conspire for profits, refused to implement central inspection and rectification requirements, fought against inspection by the authorities, and abused and beat up leading cadres and staff. 

The 57-year-old also violated the eight-point frugality code, including occupying high-end hotel suites for long periods of time, frequently accessing private clubs, and illegally purchasing expensive gifts with public funds. 

He also frequently adjusted a large number of official positions at will and took money from others in the promotion and appointment of cadres. He accepted gifts and money which may have affected the impartial performance of his official duties and also took advantage of his position to provide assistance to his relatives to gain profits in business operations. 

Huo violated regulations by intervening in market economy activities and interfered with the autonomy of businesses in production and management, engaged in image projects and political performance projects, and caused heavy economic losses. 

Huo also maintained long-term improper sexual relationships with several women. He was suspected of bribery, embezzling public funds, and abuse of power to commit crimes.  

The authorities said Huo, a leading provincial cadres, had lost his ideals, faith and Party principles. He regarded the places he was in charge of as private domains, chasing quick success and instant benefit. 

Born in 1962, Huo was appointed deputy director of the general office of the Gansu provincial government in 2001, and became Party chief of Wuwei in 2010. He took up the position of deputy director of the agriculture and rural affairs committee of the Gansu Provincial Committee of the CPPCC in 2017. 

Huo was placed under investigation in July. The suspected crimes and property involved in his case have been transferred to the procuratorate for review and prosecution.

Yang Zekun contributed to this story.