Vietnam's Party Chief Nguyen Phu Trong Passes Away at 80

Nguyen Phu Trong, Vietnam's Communist Party chief, passed away at 80 after 13 years in power. His death was attributed to old age and a serious illness. President To Lam assumes his duties temporarily. Trong, known for his anti-corruption campaign, had shown signs of frailty recently.

Nguyen Phu Trong, the ruling Communist Party chief of Vietnam, passed away on Friday at the age of 80. He had held the most powerful position in the country for 13 years. His death, attributed to old age and a serious illness, occurred in the early afternoon, as reported by the Communist Party on its official website. The statement did not specify the nature of his illness.

The announcement, based on information from Trong's medical team, highlighted the comprehensive treatment he received from top medical professionals and the party's commitment to his well-being. It was revealed that President To Lam had already taken over Trong's duties the previous day when it was announced that the ageing leader needed to focus on his medical treatment.

The Communist Party must now decide whether Lam will continue as acting general secretary until the next Congress in 2026 or if a new candidate will be elected from within the party ranks. Trong, who had served as the party general secretary since 2011, was considered the most powerful figure in Vietnam despite the absence of an official paramount ruler. He was re-elected for a third term in 2021, a rare move that underscored his significant influence. Trong had been visibly frail in public appearances and had missed numerous top-level meetings recently.

Educated in the Soviet Union, Trong was a fervent Marxist-Leninist. In 2017, he launched a major anti-corruption campaign similar to China's, leading to investigations and resignations of numerous officials, including ministers and state presidents. To Lam, formerly head of the powerful internal security agency and a key figure in the anti-corruption drive, was elected president in May after his predecessor resigned under allegations of misconduct.