Official's gangster-like challenge to social justice against rule of law

Xu Gang, a vice-governor of Fujian province, East China, who was removed from his post for suspected serious disciplinary and violations of the law last month, reportedly made "gangster-like" remarks three years prior to his suspension. Being the then-Party chief of Quanzhou, Fujian province, he referred to those who anonymously reported his misconduct as "traitors", and said he would have had "a one-on-one fight" with them if he was not in his position. Comments:

Such reckless words are in fact an abuse of power as they go against the rule of law. Like economic corruption, closer attention is needed regarding such words, because they show contempt not only to the principle of the rule of law, but also social justice.

Beijing News, April 22

In a society featuring the rule of law, a one-on-one fight is the last thing an official should do to "defend for themselves" against anonymous reports. The whistle-blowers will be held accountable if what they report is slander, if not, those being accused will be fairly judged in accordance with law and thus have the opportunity to defend themselves in court. In Xu's case, the only things that he has fought all along are fairness and justice.

Shen Daoyuan, a guest commentator with rednet.cn, April 22

For many anonymous tipsters exposing local corruption, it is the reported wrongdoers receiving due punishments that they want, not rewards. Encouraging citizens to report and protect their legal interests is what the government is obliged to do.

Wang Shichuan, a guest commentator with Beijing Youth Daily, April 22