Chapter 785

Su Yang said: "You're an old political commissar, why are you still as formal as a young newcomer? Don't be so stiff in front of me—I'm neither a superior nor a bureau leader; this makes me a bit uncomfortable. I was actually planning to stop by your office later for a chat."

"Since you've come over, that saves me the trouble of looking for you."

Su Yang's few words put old Political Commissar Mo Tai at ease; at least this young, accomplished leader didn't act like the arrogant, hot-headed youths who put on airs as soon as they arrived—he was remarkably easygoing. No wonder he's gained favor.

Mo Tai said: "County Magistrate Su, you are the leader overseeing our entire county's work; your visit to the Public Security Bureau for research is a great encouragement to our comrades."

Su Yang laughed and said: "Political Commissar Mo, you overpraise me. Lately the county has had one incident after another; I should have come to the Public Security Bureau earlier to get acquainted with the situation."

Mo Tai, hearing the implication, realized this was Su Yang's second visit to the Public Security Bureau; last time he came for research, he had stayed home pretending to be ill. Whether Su Yang meant it or not, to Mo Tai's ears it sounded like a veiled warning.

He immediately stood upright and spoke solemnly: "County Magistrate Su, regarding this matter I want to make a self-criticism—my work attitude has indeed been poor; I should have stayed at my post, but instead I've been on long-term sick leave at home."

"During my years in service, Bureau Chief Lin Zhinan and Geng Miao have colluded, even becoming enforcers for a criminal gang."

"I have repeatedly reported this to superior public security organs and raised it with the County Party Committee, but to no avail; indeed, the County Party Committee once considered reassigning my post."

"So, alas, it all boils down to my personal inadequacy, or nonfeasance, which has allowed the Public Security Bureau to degenerate into what you see today. I ask the organization to discipline me."

Su Yang nodded silently in his mind—truly an old comrade, with such awareness and a knack for reporting work.

He started off with a self-criticism, precisely stating his work mistakes, then clarifying the objective causes—this could also be seen as making excuses for himself.

But in fact, Su Yang also knew that Mo Tai could still protect himself in this situation, which indeed shows his conscience and character.

Of course, preserving oneself while keeping the position also shows his political wisdom. If it were him in that post, he'd likely just stay home, feigning illness, since these people are not to be provoked and he's nearing retirement—being absent for a year or so is normal.

He said: "Old Political Commissar, when you say that, you're criticizing the County Party Committee and County Government leadership for nonfeasance; in this regard I think I should examine myself more."

"It's because our County Party Committee and County Government leadership have degenerated, willingly becoming a shield for Geng Miao's criminal gang, that you and other conscientious cadres are unable to exert your strength."

"I came today mainly to discuss with you the upcoming personnel adjustments in the Public Security Bureau. Several deputy chiefs and squad leaders have been removed, leaving many vacancies that would greatly hinder our work, so I want to fill them as much as possible."

"Regarding these candidates, I'd like to hear your opinion. Let me clarify one point: I believe in promoting the worthy without avoiding relatives. While I don't advocate nepotism, I'm not so rigid as to forbid all considerations; I won't let jealousy of talent stop me. As long as a comrade is capable, regardless of seniority, if he can handle the job, I'll boldly recommend and appoint him."

A flicker of surprise crossed Mo Tai's face, but it vanished instantly.

In his view, someone as young as Su Yang, who single-handedly toppled the entire County Party Committee Standing Committee and eliminated the local tyrant Geng Miao who had dominated Lieshan County for years, is top-notch in ability, background, and tactics.

Moreover, he now fully oversees the County Party Committee and County Government, effectively holding great power; even if it were him in that position, he'd surely swell with pride and become an absolute authority in personnel matters—how could he give others a chance to recommend?

Regardless of whether Su Yang genuinely wants him to recommend or is just pretending, the fact that he can say such a thing already makes Su Yang stand out. Still, he isn't sure if Su Yang is serious, and since he himself is idle at home, the most he'd do is wait for retirement.

He didn't stand on ceremony, speaking directly: "Thank you for your trust, County Magistrate Su. I'm not good with words, I'm straightforward, so I'll just speak plainly."

"Regarding the deputy chief position, our former Criminal Police Team captain, Old Ding, is fully capable. Thinking of him fills me with shame—back then, under immense pressure, I not only failed to stand up and support him, but chose to go into retirement."

"That cost him not only his team captain post but nearly his ability to serve as a regular officer. Therefore, I believe both emotionally and rationally he should be appointed deputy chief, even acting chief… ah, my words got a bit tangled—I think he could serve as deputy chief while also holding the team captain role. Moreover, I've written down several other comrades' names on paper for your review, County Magistrate Su."

It seems he actually came prepared—if Su Yang were to challenge him, he'd likewise keep this list and then retire early. Within the organization there's an unwritten rule: old cadres who no longer involve themselves in affairs won't be harshly blamed before retirement if they haven't committed principled errors. So he's essentially going all out.

Su Yang didn't even look at the list, instead affirming Mo Tai's words: "Oh, I was just talking to Bureau Chief Sun earlier—I said he's only just arrived here, hasn't had time to get familiar with the bureau's personnel, so he's at a loss regarding this reshuffle; but with you, Lao Mo, everything will be fine."

"Besides, I have an idea, and I've already spoken with Secretary Zhou and Department Head Chen on the phone—so we've communicated."

"My idea is to have you, Lao Mo, serve as Public Security Bureau Director and Political Commissar, taking charge of the bureau. I believe your prestige within the bureau will ensure absolute obedience from anyone."

"So today, aside from seeking your input on those personnel vacancies in the bureau, I'm also here to ask your opinion. Anyway, I personally and several comrades on the County Party Committee Standing Committee sincerely hope you'll take the post of County Public Security Bureau Director. If there's no objection, the Organization Department will come tomorrow to talk and finalize this appointment promptly."