Former Chairman Lunzichang of Zhen Huayuan Real Estate Group Expelled from Communist Party Membership

WSJ: Former Chairman Lun Under Investigation Since March After Criticizing President Xi
Global Times Alleges Misappropriation Including Ownership of Golf Membership with Public Funds

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on the 23rd (local time) that Ren Zichang, former chairman of Huayuan Real Estate Group, who has openly criticized Chinese President Xi Jinping, has been expelled from the Communist Party.

The newspaper reported that Ren, who criticized President Xi's failure in the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) prevention, had been under investigation by Chinese authorities since last March.

The Wall Street Journal introduced Ren as a symbolic figure opposing President Xi's authority.

The newspaper added that acquaintances of Ren said the investigation by the authorities began as a political issue. Although he did not directly mention President Xi, he pointed out problems with President Xi's COVID-19 response.

The newspaper reported that as his writings circulated on Chinese social media, many Chinese inferred that Ren's criticism was aimed at President Xi. He wrote, "The emperor is not showing new clothes but stubbornly insists on being emperor even after stripping like a clown."

The newspaper said Ren could face severe punishment.

The Wall Street Journal added that Ren comes from an elite family, with his father having served as vice minister of China's Ministry of Commerce.

Meanwhile, the Chinese state-run Global Times reported on the 22nd (local time) that Ren was stripped of his party membership due to serious disciplinary violations. The Global Times stated that Ren violated party rules by purchasing golf memberships with public funds. It also revealed that he accumulated wealth through improper means.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.