The individual, identified only by the surname Zeng, is said to have made 'defamatory' and 'truthful' speeches on social media against firefighter Xie Yong. According to People's Daily, late firefighter Xie's family decided not to sue Zeng for defamation. The law on the protection of heroes and martyrs was passed on April 27 and became effective on May 1. The law makes it illegal to 'misrepresent, defame, profane or deny the deeds and spirits of heroes and martyrs, or to praise or beautify invasions,' state media said in a summary when it was introduced. The Communist Party has long kept a tight grasp on its history, bolstering its legitimacy with tales of heroes and martyrs who gave their lives to the party's causes.

Source: Daily Mail May 22, 2018 09:44 UTC