China’s former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tang Renjian, has been sentenced to death for accepting massive bribes, Chinese state media reported on Monday.
According to official sources, a Chinese court handed Tang the death penalty with a two-year reprieve, meaning the sentence will only be carried out if he commits another serious offense during that period. This is a common legal practice in China for major corruption cases where the accused cooperates.
The court also revoked all his political rights and ordered the confiscation of his personal property. Additionally, any illegally obtained assets from bribery have been ordered to be turned over to the state.
The court found that between 2007 and 2024, Tang abused his official positions—both at central and provincial levels—to illegally assist others in securing business contracts, job promotions, and project approvals. In return, he received a total of 268 million yuan (approximately $38 million) in bribes.
In its judgment, the court stated that Tang’s actions severely damaged public interest and state institutions, warranting the death penalty. However, due to his confession, cooperation with investigators, and return of illicit gains, the court opted for a suspended sentence as a measure of leniency.
This case is the latest in China’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign, which has seen several high-ranking officials brought to justice in recent years.