The most powerful figure in Vietnam, Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, has passed away after over 13 years of leadership due to a reported illness, as stated by state media.
The announcement of his death came a day after he was announced to hand over his power for medical treatment of an undisclosed condition. Trong passed away at a military hospital, leading to plans for a national-level funeral.
With a new president appointed in May and Trong’s responsibilities now in the hands of ceremonial president To Lam, Vietnam faces a political transition at a time when the Communist administration is undergoing significant changes.
‘Bamboo diplomacy’
Born in Hanoi in 1944, Trong was known for his anticorruption campaign and pragmatic approach to foreign relations, leading Vietnam to maintain ties with both China and the United States.
Trong’s passing leaves a political vacuum in Vietnam, with uncertainty surrounding the future leadership and governance as the country grapples with shifting norms and institutions.
Despite his mixed legacy, Trong’s impact on Vietnamese politics and governance will be remembered in the years to come.