Henan University of Science and Technology Continuing Education College office director failed to pay for cigarettes and alcohol debt for four years, the seller asked for payment and then passed away. This news quickly became a hot topic on Baidu on December 17.
According to news from “Xiaoxiang Morning Post,” a netizen recently posted, “Henan University of Science and Technology owes me money for cigarettes and alcohol, with Director Wu’s signed IOU. The IOU clearly states that the items purchased, valued at 95,412 RMB, were ‘official use alcohol’ for Director Huang of the college… Over the years, I have gone to the school several times to ask for payment, but they keep passing the buck and not resolving the issue… The child’s father got upset and went to Henan University of Science and Technology alone to argue about it… He had a stroke and passed away in the hospital with regret… ”
The IOU presented by the netizen shows that on July 16, 2020, Wu, the office director of the Continuing Education College at Henan University of Science and Technology, purchased cigarettes and alcohol worth 95,412 RMB from He, with the note indicating that these items were for “official use alcohol” requested by Director Huang of the college.
On December 16, when questioned by “Xiaoxiang Morning Post,” the office staff of Henan University of Science and Technology Continuing Education College stated that Director Huang was no longer employed at the college. Regarding Wu and the truth of the incident, the staff said they could not comment. The discipline inspection commission of Henan University of Science and Technology also stated they could not provide information on this matter and suggested contacting the school’s propaganda department.
Director Huang mentioned in the IOU responded to the media, saying, “Do you believe it? Personal borrowing behavior has nothing to do with me. There is no official seal on the IOU. I don’t even drink, why would I need so much alcohol?”
The death of the debtor due to the IOU stirred up attention and discussion among netizens.
Some netizens find it unbelievable that such obvious official consumption turned into a “personal debt.” Others doubt Director Huang’s denial of the IOU due to his claim of not drinking.
Netizen “hbmachengwlq” expressed, “The existence of the IOU is a fact. No need for anything else. It’s a matter of principle to repay debts.”
User “278551081” explained, “The alcohol couldn’t be reimbursed according to regulations, so the office did not want to advance payment, resulting in the IOU. To avoid taking responsibility, the purpose was clearly stated on the IOU. It’s easy to understand.”
Many netizens think that the family of the deceased can directly file a lawsuit.
User “四象青萍” believes, “Without an official seal and no signature from a supervisor, it should not be deemed as official expenses. This IOU is a personal matter in civil terms, and the debtor can be sued in court. If suing the school, it is unlikely to be supported.”
However, “斂青易05a” stated, “Many IOUs do not have the unit’s seal.”