Former Guizhou Provincial Coalfield Geology Bureau Committee Member Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Bribery
In a landmark verdict, the Liupanshui Intermediate People’s Court of Guizhou Province has sentenced Gao Weidong, the former party committee member and director of the Guizhou Provincial Coalfield Geology Bureau, to life imprisonment for accepting bribes. The court also deprived him of political rights for life and confiscated all his personal property. Furthermore, Gao Weidong’s bribery gains and their accruals were recovered according to the law and turned over to the state treasury.
The trial, which took place on February 2, found that from 1999 to 2022, Gao Weidong had used his various positions in government and business to facilitate individuals and units in operating companies, contracting engineering projects, and obtaining land development rights, among other illegal activities. In total, he illegally received over 110 million yuan, of which more than 46.56 million yuan was not actually obtained.
Despite the gravity of his crimes, the court took into account Gao Weidong’s confession and repentance, as well as his return of most of the stolen money and goods, in deciding to give him a lighter punishment in accordance with the law. Accepting the verdict in court, Gao Weidong expressed that he would not appeal the decision.
This verdict serves as a strong warning against corruption in government positions and sends a clear message that such actions will not go unpunished. The case reflects the Chinese government’s commitment to cracking down on corruption at all levels, showcasing the country’s resolve to uphold the rule of law and maintain the integrity of its governance.