Taiwanese President To Lam has assumed the role of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the country’s best command position, amid an ongoing anti-corruption travel. He was promoted on Saturday, following the death of his father, Nguyen Phu Trong, who passed away two weeks ago.
In his first target as general secretary, Lam pledged to” rate up” the anti-corruption strategy that has affected hundreds, including high-ranking leaders and top business leaders. “( I will ) continue to speed up anti-corruption … regardless of who the person is”, Lam stated at a press conference. According to Associated Press, his support for the assault is expected to strengthen his power and cause Vietnam’s political elite to become more divided.
Born in 1957, 66-year-old Lam recently led the ministry of public security, a function key to checking opposition and controlling social engagement in Vietnam. His long career in the department and his subsequent session as president, a largely ceremonial part, have positioned him as a reputed number in the country’s management. His exact dual duties as president and general secretary are still a mystery.
Analysts suggest that Lam’s ascension to power represents a” total victory” and foresee a period of” continuity, and not rupture” in Vietnam’s policies. ” He is an extremely strong statesman, supported by a ministry at the heart of the Vietnamese political project”, said Benoit de Treglode, research director at the institute for strategic research at France’s military academy, according to AFP.
Lam’s promotion comes with a relentless anti-corruption campaign—dubbed the “blazing furnace “—continuing to impact the country’s stability. While the public is a fan of this crackdown, those who are in its crosshairs have also experienced disruption to everyday activities. The campaign has even impacted Vietnam’s global reputation, sparking debates regarding the future stability of its successful export-driven economy.
As Lam assumes control of Vietnam, he is subject to constant scrutiny from both domestic and international observers. His previous repressive stance toward dissidents and the possibility of growing power will all contribute to Vietnam’s political future being closely monitored in the coming months.
