China sends warning to corruption-concealing officials
Chinese authorities have cautioned officials who cover up corruption, saying they will seek them out.
The move, reported by state media, is the latest in the government's push to check extortion. It's been working to quash widespread corruption in the country – from bribery, to costly entertainment and gift-giving.
But the news comes after the ruling communist party recently made over 20 arrests of activists who have campaigned for transparency on officials’ wealth.
The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, part of China’s anti-corruption watchdog, said investigators should probe the perpetuators of corruption, also supervising members of the ruling party and local investigators themselves.
"Officials must investigate those responsible, as well as relevant leaders' involvement, including within party committees and discipline inspection committees," said a research unit of the disciplinary body, as reported by news agency Xinhua.
It added that officials "must make make clear whether a leading official took the initiative to discover and resolutely investigate or … was derelict in duty or even concealed discipline problems or shielded (violators)."
In some cases, this type of corruption was not revealed until officials were promoted, which "severely damages public confidence in the party," it said.
It’s unclear, however, whether the comments are part of policy or just guidelines, and what punishment could be meted out on those found guilty of such failings.