Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
A Chinese court has handed down a death sentence with a two-year reprieve to former sports minister Gou Zhongwen for accepting bribes and abusing his official powers, marking a significant development in Beijing’s anti-corruption crackdown. The Yancheng Intermediate People’s Court in Jiangsu announced on Monday that Gou, 68, accepted more than 236 million yuan (approximately $33.4 million) in bribes between 2009 and 2024, leveraging his positions to benefit individuals and departments in business dealings and project approvals.
In addition to the death sentence with reprieve, Gou was stripped of his political rights for life, and all his personal assets were confiscated. He also received a separate five-year prison sentence for abuse of power during his tenure as Beijing vice-mayor from 2012 to 2013, during which he mishandled a project acquisition that caused significant losses to public assets. The court combined both penalties and ordered that all illicitly obtained funds be returned to the state treasury.
The court emphasized the severity of the case, citing the “extremely large” amount of bribes, the serious circumstances, negative social impact, and considerable harm to state interests. Despite the harsh verdict, leniency was applied due to Gou’s confession, cooperation with authorities, return of funds, and disclosure of previously undiscovered crimes. Nonetheless, he will not be eligible for parole or any future reduction in sentence, meaning he will effectively serve a life sentence if the death penalty is commuted.
Gou joined the Communist Party of China in 1976 and rose through the ranks, serving as Beijing vice-mayor in 2008 and later heading the General Administration of Sport from 2016 to 2022. He also chaired the Chinese Olympic Committee and led the organizing committee for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.
Investigations into Gou began in May 2024, leading to his expulsion from the Communist Party, removal from office, and formal criminal charges. His public trial was conducted on August 20, drawing significant attention due to his high-profile roles in Chinese sports administration and the Olympics.
Observers note that Gou’s sentencing underscores China’s continued determination to pursue anti-corruption measures at the highest levels of government, particularly involving officials who wield significant influence over national and international projects.
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