A historical Chinese TV drama focusing on anti-corruption, The Ming Dynasty 1566, has drawn widespread attention since being broadcast on Hunan TV at the beginning of this year.

Hong Kong-based Wenhui Daily reported on Sunday that the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) has joined forces with the TV show to shed light on the current government's diverse anti-corruption measures.

The plot of the drama revolves around Hai Rui, a county magistrate who makes painstaking efforts throughout his life to fight against Prime Minister Yan Song's corrupt dictatorship in the Ming Dynasty.

When asked why the CCDI would join the production of a TV series, Wang Ping, an official from the supervision department, said the theme of the show goes along with the construction of an honest and clean government, an important task for the commission.

According to mainland media reports, Wu Guanzheng, secretary of the CCDI, paid a visit to Hai Rui's former residence when visiting Hainan province in 2003. He suggested local leaders promote the resolve of Hai Rui in fighting against corruption, with many lessons to learn from the household name proven one of the most incorruptible officials in history.

(CRI.cn March 5, 2007)