Vietnam names To Lam president

Vietnam’s National Assembly on April 7 unanimously elected To Lam as the country’s state president for a five-year term, consolidating power in the hands of the Communist Party chief and marking a significant shift in the nation’s political structure.

The move, widely anticipated, departs from Vietnam’s long-standing system of collective leadership. Analysts say it could concentrate authority in a single figure in a way that may steer the one-party state toward stronger central control, while also allowing for quicker policy decisions, similar to neighboring China, Reuters reports. 

According to parliament, all 495 deputies present at the session voted in favour of the Communist Party’s nomination. Five lawmakers were absent. Officials had previously confirmed that key leadership nominations were finalized during a meeting in late March.

Lam, who previously served as head of public security, now holds both the presidency and the position of Communist Party general secretary, having secured a second term as party chief in January. This dual role gives him broad influence over both the party and the state.

Parliament is expected later on April 7 to appoint a new prime minister to succeed outgoing leader Pham Minh Chinh.

In a televised address following the vote, Lam said it was an honour to hold both roles and pledged “a new growth model with science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation as the primary driving forces.” He also emphasised a focus on strengthening national defense and self-reliance.

He added that his top priorities include maintaining stability, advancing rapid and sustainable economic development, and improving “all aspects of people's lives.”

By Sabina Mammadli