Chapter 13: The Scapegoat

“Since we are holding someone accountable, it must be done fairly, justly, and based on facts—this is the most fundamental principle of our organization. Strict discipline and fair rewards and punishments are what truly serve the greater good,” Hu Jiayun said solemnly.

After Hu Jiayun finished speaking, Wang Yunfei’s expression darkened considerably.

Xu Guoli also furrowed his brow, surprised that this mysterious woman would suddenly make a stand over such a minor issue today—and with such determination.

“I agree with Secretary Hu. I really don’t understand what’s going on. He’s only been on the job a few days. Does he even have the time or opportunity to make mistakes? Why dump everything on one young man? Where is your conscience? Has it been eaten by dogs?” Li Dejun’s anger simmered beneath the surface.

“Enough, enough! Quarreling over this here—don’t you have any sense of the bigger picture? What, do you really want us all to be implicated?” Xu Guoli suddenly snapped.

“I’ll say it again: since the investigation shows the problem lies with the data, whoever’s responsible must bear the consequences. Qin Feng is in charge of the civil affairs office’s data work, so the responsibility falls on him. There’s no need to debate this further,” Xu Guoli decisively declared.

“Moreover, it must be dealt with severely, or we won’t be able to report this to higher-ups. Fire him!” Wang Yunfei added coldly.

For Wang Yunfei, this was a perfect two-birds-with-one-stone opportunity—having Qin Feng take the fall would both save Yang Delin and remove Qin Feng from the picture.

Hearing Wang Yunfei call for Qin Feng’s dismissal, Hu Jiayun’s face turned chillingly cold. Just as she was about to speak, Xu Guoli cut in first: “Alright, it’s settled then. Let’s move on to the next agenda item…”

Xu Guoli’s words made his stance clear. As party secretary and top leader, his final decision was tantamount to the organization’s decree.

Hu Jiayun interrupted coldly, “If this is the collective decision reached after today’s discussion, I will abide by the organization’s choice, but I reserve my personal opinion.”

“Does the problematic data really have anything to do with Qin Feng? Everyone here knows the truth,” Hu Jiayun said, casting a glance at Wang Yunfei.

“What do you mean by that?” Wang Yunfei’s heart skipped a beat as he stared at Hu Jiayun.

“I’ll say it again: fairness, justice, and factual accuracy are the principles of our organization. I firmly do not agree with nor accept the punishment decided for Qin Feng,” Hu Jiayun dismissed Wang Yunfei.

“Lastly, I want to emphasize that the root of the civil affairs office is already rotten. If we don’t pull it out and deal with it thoroughly, covering it up will only allow this kind of thing to happen again. Next time, who will be made the scapegoat? Does the life and death of ordinary people truly mean so little?”

“I’m feeling unwell. I’ll leave now.”

With that, Hu Jiayun stood and walked out.

“Look at what you’re doing, then look at how the people live—you’ll get your comeuppance sooner or later. What kind of people are you…” Li Dejun slammed his hand on the table in frustration and followed Hu Jiayun out.

Hu Jiayun entered her office, seething with anger. It was the first time in over a year working in Bishan that she had been so furious over work.

After a moment of thought, she picked up her phone, flipped through her contacts, and dialed a number.

“Secretary Lin, this is Xiaoyun. How have you been feeling lately? I have something I need to report to you…”