On August 6, 2025, the Deyang Intermediate People’s Court in Sichuan Province publicly announced the first-instance verdict in the bribery case of Qin Rupei, former member of the Standing Committee of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Party Committee and former vice chairman of the autonomous region government. The defendant Qin Rupei was sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve, deprived of political rights for life, and had all personal property confiscated. The illicit gains and interest recovered in the case were turned over to the state treasury, with any shortfall to be further recovered.

The court found that between 1998 and 2024, the defendant Qin Rupei took advantage of his positions—including Deputy Secretary and District Chief of Baiyun District in Guiyang, Guizhou Province; Secretary of the Political and Legal Affairs Committee of Guiyang; Deputy Secretary and Commissioner of Bijie Prefecture; Secretary of Bijie Prefecture (later City); Standing Committee Member and Vice Governor of Guizhou Province; Secretary of the Gui’an New Area Party Working Committee; Standing Committee Member and Vice Chairman of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Government; and Secretary of the Party Committee of the Autonomous Region State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission—to provide favors in project contracts, business operations, and job transfers for certain entities and individuals. He illegally accepted bribes totaling over 216 million yuan.

The Deyang Intermediate People’s Court ruled that Qin Rupei’s actions constituted bribery. The amount involved was exceptionally large, causing significant losses to state and public interests, warranting severe punishment. However, considering his truthful confession, voluntary disclosure of most undisclosed bribery facts, partial restitution of illicit gains, and remorse, the court imposed a death sentence with reprieve instead of immediate execution.

The court held a public trial on May 23, 2025, during which prosecutors presented evidence, and the defendant and his defense counsel cross-examined it. Both sides fully presented arguments under the court’s supervision, and Qin Rupei made a final statement admitting guilt. Over 40 observers, including representatives from various sectors, attended the hearing.

Deyang Intermediate People’s Court

The Deyang Intermediate People’s Court is a judicial institution in Deyang City, Sichuan Province, China, responsible for handling intermediate-level legal cases within its jurisdiction. Established as part of China’s judicial system, it plays a key role in adjudicating appeals and major cases, reflecting the country’s structured legal hierarchy. While specific historical details about its founding are limited, it operates under the framework of China’s modern legal reforms aimed at ensuring judicial oversight and fairness.

Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region

The Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, located in southern China, is known for its stunning karst landscapes, ethnic diversity, and the Li River. Established as an autonomous region in 1958, it is home to the Zhuang people, China’s largest ethnic minority, alongside other groups like the Yao and Miao. Rich in history, Guangxi was part of the ancient Lingnan region and played a key role in trade routes, including the maritime Silk Road.

Baiyun District

Baiyun District, located in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, is a rapidly developing urban area known for its blend of modern infrastructure and cultural heritage. Historically, it was an important agricultural and trade region, with landmarks like the Baiyun Mountain (a scenic spot dating back over a thousand years) reflecting its natural and historical significance. Today, it serves as a key economic and transportation hub while preserving green spaces and cultural sites.

Guiyang

Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province in southwestern China, is a vibrant city known for its lush landscapes, ethnic diversity, and mild climate. With a history dating back over 600 years as a regional hub, it became an important center during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, Guiyang is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, including Miao and Dong minority traditions, and modern developments like its role as a big data industry hub.

Bijie Prefecture

Bijie Prefecture, located in northwestern Guizhou Province, China, is known for its stunning karst landscapes, diverse ethnic cultures, and historical significance as part of the ancient Shu-Han Kingdom. It is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Yi and Miao, who preserve rich traditions and festivals. The region also played a role in the Red Army’s Long March during the 1930s, adding to its historical importance.

Gui’an New Area

Gui’an New Area is a state-level new district established in 2014 in Guizhou Province, China, designed to promote economic growth and innovation in the country’s underdeveloped western regions. Located near Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou, it serves as a hub for big data, eco-tourism, and high-tech industries, leveraging the region’s cool climate and clean energy resources. The area reflects China’s broader strategy of regional development and poverty alleviation through infrastructure investment and technological advancement.

Guizhou Province

Guizhou Province, located in southwestern China, is known for its stunning karst landscapes, rich ethnic diversity, and vibrant cultural heritage. Home to over 17 ethnic minority groups, including the Miao and Dong peoples, it features traditional villages, terraced rice fields, and festivals showcasing unique customs. Historically remote and underdeveloped, Guizhou has preserved much of its natural beauty and cultural traditions, while recent infrastructure improvements have boosted tourism and economic growth.

Autonomous Region State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission

The **Autonomous Region State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC)** is a government agency responsible for overseeing and managing state-owned enterprises (SOEs) within China’s autonomous regions, ensuring their efficient operation and alignment with national economic policies. Established as part of China’s broader state-asset management reforms, it plays a key role in maintaining state control over critical industries while promoting market-oriented development. Its history reflects China’s efforts to balance regional autonomy with centralized economic governance.