In a significant demonstration of China’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign, Ren Yuzhong, former vice-president of Peking University, has been permanently expelled from the Communist Party of China and removed from all public offices. The decisive action follows an extensive investigation authorized by the CPC Central Committee and conducted by the nation’s top disciplinary bodies.
The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Commission of Supervision announced on Monday that their probe revealed multiple serious violations by the former academic leader. Investigators determined that Ren had systematically abused his influential position for personal enrichment, engaging in illegal acceptance of substantial monetary gifts and valuable property.
According to official statements, Ren’s misconduct extended across multiple domains of university operations. The investigation documented how he manipulated staff recruitment processes, provided improper advantages in student admissions and employment placements, and violated regulations by holding undisclosed shares in private companies. His actions represented a comprehensive breach of both party discipline and legal boundaries.
The disciplinary report characterized Ren’s behavior as particularly egregious, noting that he ‘completely ignored disciplinary and legal boundaries’ and ‘showed no restraint’ in his pursuit of personal gain at the institution’s expense. His case has been described as both serious in nature and damaging in its broader impact.
With his party membership revoked and public office terminated, Ren now faces criminal proceedings. All illicit assets acquired through his misconduct have been confiscated, and judicial authorities will review the evidence for potential prosecution on bribery charges.
Ren Yuzhong, a 45-year-old native of Sichuan province, had risen through academic ranks to become one of China’s most prominent university administrators. Holding a doctoral degree in law from Peking University, he previously served as head of the university’s Party committee publicity department and acted as institutional spokesperson.