I agree softpower need hardpower as foundation. But even the US sometimes have to act with humility when things have turned into shitstorm.

This sex scandal won't affect China power, just like it won't affect the US power. But it could hurt China's reputation if China is perceived as condoning it, and try to hide it. Even the Clinton's affairs is investigated, and he was the president, although it is more like a circus trial where the result is predicted. China could learn from it. By surpressing the news, it only leave bad taste to every one, including Chinese citizens who probably will talk about it in private, and think that there is no justice in China. It also give ammunition to the US to attack China. I don't think it is worthy enough to sacrifice China's reputation for a single individual who can't keep his dick in pant.

There are other battles that are more worthy to fight for, like the source of Covid. Sex scandal is not one of them. I say China should just hang him dry.