Chapter 343: 343 people in Yangzhou have the surname Zhang.
Under the public eye, Zhang Tianbao finally showcased a worldly demeanor.
His expression was mild yet serious. He adjusted the microphone and said, "I have been working in Yangzhou for over two months and have attended two democratic life meetings. I am profoundly touched. But undoubtedly, today has impacted me the most."
"First, Secretary Du is open-minded, widely accepting suggestions, and humbly embraces them, pursuing democracy and freedom of expression, setting an excellent example for us Party members and cadres."
"Second, Mayor Zhang dares to speak the truth, is bold in giving directives, and confronts the democratic life meeting with higher standards. This is commendable and worthy of our learning and praise."
"Third, our country's marriage law is about the freedom to marry and divorce, without any coercion. This incident was based entirely on the individuals' consent. However, we Party members and cadres must still make prudent marital decisions, ensuring that our marriages do not affect the bigger picture or our work!"
"Fourth, I believe that the issues raised by Mayor Zhang were based on thorough investigation and authentic evidence before they were presented to Secretary Du. This is a responsible act from a comrade to another within the Party! However, we cannot deny Secretary Du the right to pursue happiness, though having been married four times indeed affects his public reputation. Today, I suggest we keep it confidential; the attendees must not disclose it. As an important cadre of the Party, it behooves Secretary Du to consider everything carefully, to think thrice before acting. This is also like me giving Secretary Du a nudge, a blush, a sweat, isn't it? Here, we should also commend the courage Secretary Du has shown in speaking, along with Mayor Zhang — able to speak, willing to speak the truth. Let's give them a round of applause!"
Having finished, Zhang Tianbao took the lead in clapping.
Consequently, the room followed with a heated applause, which was formal and necessary.
Even Zhang Yuxing clapped, and so did Du Yuesheng.
Zhang Tianbao, this guy, managed not to offend either side, skillfully playing a smooth Taiji! Even Liu Zhizhong couldn't help but admire internally, truly a protege of Minister Luo from the Provincial City!
After the applause subsided, Du Yuesheng felt relatively less embarrassed.
This sweat-drenched man thickened his skin and said, "Thank you, Mayor Zhang, for speaking bravely and hitting the nail on the head. Du Someone needs to reflect deeply. Facing all comrades present today, I must review my hasty approach to marital decisions and request that everyone continue to correct and criticize me. We should dare to speak, be able to speak, and speak the truth! Party leaders must endure such scrutiny and challenges!"
When he finished, Lu Yuqing saw that the matter was nearly perfectly resolved and led the applause.
Thus, the room burst into enthusiastic applause again. It was still perfunctory and necessary.
When the democratic life meeting finally concluded and Lu Yuqing announced adjournment, while everyone was getting up and the secretaries were packing up, Zhang Yuxing suddenly said, "Secretary Du, I'd like to visit your office to discuss some matters further, to exchange some opinions, may I?"
Du Yuesheng, having been handled by Zhang Yuxing today, was hardly in a position to refuse.
"Yes, yes, absolutely, Mayor Zhang, you are most welcome!"
In reality, Du Yuesheng wished there was a way to ensnare Zhang Yuxing in his office, to make her obedient and silence her, sparing him further embarrassment!
But dare he?
At such a moment, Zhang Yuxing's request and Du Yuesheng's reaction made every knowledgeable official finally understand.
Yangzhou, after all, is ruled by the Zhangs!
Even Du Yuesheng, a brother-in-law to the Zhang Family and serving as the Mayor, still fears the Zhang Family's Mayor. Today, he nearly couldn't save face!