Former Xizang Official Receives Suspended Death Sentence for Bribery

Wang Yong, formerly the vice-chairman of the government of the Xizang autonomous region, has received a suspended death sentence. The sentence was handed down by a court in Hunan province on Tuesday. The Chenzhou Intermediate People's Court found him guilty of bribery.

The court's sentence included the death penalty with a two-year reprieve. Additionally, Wang was stripped of his political rights for life and all his personal assets were seized. All the money and assets he gained illegally were ordered to be turned over to the State treasury.

In China, a suspended death sentence is often converted to life imprisonment after two years if the individual does not commit any further offenses. The life sentence can then be reduced based on the inmate's conduct.

The court's findings revealed that Wang exploited his various positions between 2007 and 2023. These positions included roles within the Civil Aviation Administration of Southwest China, the Civil Aviation Safety Supervision Bureau of Guizhou province, and Guizhou Airport Group Co. He also leveraged his position as commander of the Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport expansion project. He sought benefits for organizations and individuals, particularly in relation to project contracts.

In exchange for these benefits, Wang accepted bribes exceeding 271 million yuan, equivalent to $37.7 million. The court determined that Wang's crimes were exceptionally serious, with the substantial amount of bribes causing significant harm to public assets and the interests of the nation and its citizens.

However, the court considered Wang's confession, guilty plea, expressions of remorse, and his full return of the illegal gains. These factors contributed to a more lenient sentence. The trial, which was open to the public, took place on May 15th. Over 40 individuals, including national lawmakers, political advisors, and journalists, were present. During the trial, evidence was presented, and Wang admitted his guilt, making a final statement in court.