(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-10-05 21:37

China's governing officials have been ordered to amend, repeal or rectify more than 92,000 acts or decisions since the introduction of an administrative appeal system in 1999.

From 2000 to 2006, a total of 92,435 acts of government at all levels were changed or their implementation enforced, according to the Legislative Affairs Office of the State Council, and the number is likely to rise.

The changes were brought about by appeals, or "lawsuits filed by common people against government officials", which allow people to petition higher authorities to correct mistakes of lower organizations.

Yang Chaofei, director of the Policy, Law and Regulations Department of the State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA), said the process was effective in making the government examine and correct its mistakes.

Cao Kangtai, director of the Legislative Affairs Office of the State Council, said the key precondition for the implementation of the system was clearing a channel to protect the legal rights of the people.

"There will be more and more challenges to government decisions as the country continues the crucial period of reform and development," Cao said.

The government has set up a series of regulations to ensure the implementation of the Administrative Reconsideration Law.

The appeal authorities can recommend administrative penalties for responsible officials to personnel departments, under the regulations.

"The system will make greater contribution to the building of a harmonious society and a government that rules by law," Cao said.