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Cheng Kejie Unlikely to Rid of Death Penalty: Law Expert
A Beijing law professor said Tuesday that Cheng Kejie, a former senior Chinese legislator sentenced to death on first trial Monday, is unlike to get away from the original verdict in the forthcoming second hearing, as is reported by Chinadaily.
Sixty-six-year-old Cheng, a former vice-chairman of China's National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, received a death verdict at Beijing No.1 Intermediate People's Court for accepting bribes amounting to 41 million yuan (US$4.96 million) together with his mistress. He has a right to appeal to a higher court within ten days for second hearing.
He Jiahong, criminal law expert from People's University of China, said: "Personally speaking, the evidence of the case is clear and the verdict suits the law. So if Chen appeals, the chances of commuting or changing the original sentence are rare."
The professor noted that the sentence clearly showed the strong resolve of the Chinese Government to fight against corruption and bribery cases.
He affirmed that Cheng's death penalty can be treated as a warning to some senior officials, adding it can also strengthen law enforcement and help set up a self-restraint mechanism.
"The perfection of the legal system can help avoid the appearance of the `second Cheng'," he said.
According to He, the Chinese people hate corruption and bribery cases and are welcoming the court's decision.
He added however, the government should think more about how to stop these severe problems, affirming that a perfect legal system is imperative to stop officials accepting bribes.
He noted that the easy prey of corrupt officials, heavier punishment and a social supervision pressure help establish a better-regulated legal environment.
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