Zhou Jiugeng, a real estate management official in Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu Province, was removed from his office on suspicion of embezzling public funds and expressing unauthorized views, Yangtse Evening Post reported.

On December 10, Zhou, director of the real estate management bureau in Jiangning district, Nanjing, told the media that developers should be punished if they sold properties below cost – a remark that sparked criticism from the public. Zhou was also criticized for smoking expensive cigarettes, wearing an up-market watch, and using a top-grade car. Internet users suggested the director should be investigated.

The Jiangning district government’s approach is to support the local real estate industry in accordance with relevant national and provincial policies. It said that no real estate company had been punished for cutting property prices.

Relevant departments have started an investigation of Zhou Jiugeng. He will be severely punished if he is found guilty of any corruption or violation of laws and discipline.

Zhou was suspended on December 28 based on a preliminary investigation.

Party members and officials should listen to public opinion through different channels available. In particular they should make a greater effort to communicate with the public through the Internet, and facilitate access to officials, said Zhu Shanlu, Secretary of CPC Nanjing Municipal Committee.

(China .org.cn by Yang Xi, December 29, 2008)