8-6-2024 (HANOI) In a move that has sparked concerns over free speech and democratic freedoms, Vietnamese authorities have arrested two prominent Facebook users, Truong Huy San, a former reporter, and Tran Dinh Trien, a lawyer. The arrests, announced by the government on Saturday (June 8), come as the Communist-ruled country undergoes a major leadership reshuffle.
According to the government statement, San, 62, and Trien, 65, stand accused of “abusing democratic freedoms to infringe upon the interests of the state.” Despite Vietnam’s sweeping economic reforms and increasing openness to social change, the ruling Communist Party maintains tight media censorship and exhibits little tolerance for criticism.
The statement alleged that San and Trien had posted articles on Facebook that infringed upon the interests of the state and the lawful rights and interests of organizations and individuals, without providing further details.
San and Trien have garnered a significant following on Facebook, with their accounts amassing hundreds of thousands of followers. Their posts often contained criticisms of the administration and law enforcement authorities, positioning them as vocal voices in the online sphere. However, their Facebook accounts mysteriously disappeared from the platform less than a week ago, fueling rumors of their potential arrest.
The announcement of the arrests comes amidst heightened political turbulence in Vietnam, following the National Assembly’s approval of a new police minister on Thursday and the recent appointments of a new state president and parliament speaker more than two weeks ago.
According to the government’s statement, police have conducted searches of San’s and Trien’s homes, and further investigations are underway. However, Reuters was unable to immediately reach their lawyers for comment on the charges and ongoing proceedings.
The arrests of San and Trien have raised concerns among free speech advocates and human rights organizations, who view the crackdown as a troubling infringement on democratic freedoms and freedom of expression in Vietnam.
While the country has made strides in economic reforms and social changes, the Communist Party’s grip on power and its intolerance for dissent have come under scrutiny. The arrests serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by activists, journalists, and citizens who voice criticisms or dissenting views in Vietnam’s tightly controlled political landscape.
