3-8-2024 (HANOI) In a significant political transition, Vietnam’s President To Lam has ascended to the pinnacle of power within the nation’s ruling Communist Party. On Saturday, 3 August, Lam was officially named general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, succeeding the late Nguyen Phu Trong, who passed away a fortnight ago.
The elevation of Lam to the party’s top position comes after a brief period of transition. He had assumed the duties of party chief on 18 July, just one day before Trong’s demise, as the former leader’s health rapidly deteriorated.
Party officials, addressing a press conference, revealed that delegates had unanimously backed Lam’s nomination, underscoring a united front within the party ranks. This show of solidarity is crucial for maintaining political stability in the one-party state.
In his inaugural address to the delegates, Lam pledged to uphold and advance the legacy of his predecessor. He assured continuity in Vietnam’s foreign policy, emphasising that no dramatic shifts should be anticipated. The new party chief outlined his commitment to achieving the nation’s socioeconomic development goals and vowed to vigorously pursue the anti-corruption campaign that has been a hallmark of recent Vietnamese politics.
While Vietnam does not formally designate a supreme leader, the role of party general secretary has grown increasingly influential, particularly during Trong’s 13-year tenure. Trong had significantly consolidated power within this position, making it the de facto paramount leadership role in Vietnamese politics.
Lam’s ascension to this pivotal post is the culmination of a long-standing ambition, according to political analysts who have closely followed his career trajectory. His path to the top echelon of power was paved through a lifetime in the security apparatus, most recently serving as police minister. In this capacity, Lam spearheaded a series of high-profile anti-corruption investigations, burnishing his credentials as a crusader against graft.
The new party chief’s rise to the presidency in May was seen by many observers as a strategic stepping stone to the ultimate goal of party leadership. Lam replaced Vo Van Thuong, whose brief tenure of about a year was cut short by allegations of unspecified misconduct.
