China probes high-profile minister for alleged corruption
Beijing, July 28 (EFE).- China’s high-profile industry and information technology minister, Xiao Yaqing, is under investigation by the top anti-corruption agency for alleged “violations of discipline and law,” a euphemism for graft.
The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) reported the development on Thursday, even though investigators from the Chinese Communist Party’s (CPC) leading anti-corruption organization did not provide any details.
Xiao was in charge of China’s key sectors, which included next-generation telecommunications, semiconductors, vaccine production, and electric cars.
He was not on the CPC’s list of leaders for the next 20th party congress, which was released on Wednesday, triggering rumors of disciplinary action.
The 62-year-old official was previously in charge of the State Administration for Market Regulation and the Assets Supervision and Administration Commission — both state-owned enterprises.
President Xi Jinping launched an anti-corruption effort after taking office in 2012, and numerous prominent Chinese officials have been convicted of wrongdoing for accepting millions of dollars in kickbacks.
The campaign has exposed several high-profile instances of corruption within the ruling party. However, some critics believe that Xi may use the flagship drive to destroy the political careers of some of his opponents.
The ruling party’s 20th congress will be held in Beijing later this year, when Xi might begin an unprecedented third term in office. EFE
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