Breaking: Former Agriculture Minister sentenced to death in corruption case
Babushahi Bureau
Beijing (China), September 29, 2025 – In a major development under President Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign, China’s court has sentenced former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Tang Renjian to death in a high-profile bribery case. The sentence comes with a two-year reprieve.
Tang was found guilty of accepting approximately $38 million (around 268 million yuan) in bribes during his tenure in various government positions. The verdict underscores China’s strict stance that even top officials are not immune from punishment.
Charges Against Tang Renjian:
- Abuse of Power: Between 2007 and 2024, Tang allegedly misused his positions at both central and local levels.
- Favoring Business Deals: He provided undue benefits in business contracts, project approvals, and job placements.
- Massive Bribes: Tang accepted cash and valuable items exceeding 268 million yuan (~$38 million) in return for favors.
The Changchun Intermediate People’s Court stated that his crimes caused severe damage to the interests of the state and the public, justifying the death sentence.
Why a Two-Year Reprieve?
- Tang admitted to his crimes during the trial and expressed remorse.
- He returned the illegally obtained assets to the government.
- If Tang does not commit any further crimes during the two-year reprieve, the death sentence could be commuted to life imprisonment.
Other Court Orders:
- Tang is stripped of all political rights for life.
- All his private property has been confiscated.
- All illegally obtained assets must be handed over to the national treasury.
This case is part of President Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign, initiated after he assumed power in 2012, which has disciplined over one million officials so far.