HANOI: Vietnam’s President Vo Van Thuong has resigned after just one year in the office, state media announced Wednesday. The move comes amidst a sweeping anti-corruption campaign in the country, marking a significant moment in its political landscape.
The Vietnam News Agency (VNA) reported that Thuong’s departure was prompted by “violations and shortcomings,” leading to his resignation being accepted by the party’s central committee. The 53-year-old’s abrupt exit underscores the deepening political shake-up in Vietnam, with his predecessor also ousted as part of the anti-corruption drive, which has already claimed the dismissal of several ministers and the prosecution of top business figures for fraudulent activities.
According to VNA, Thuong was found to have breached unspecified “regulations” and failed to uphold an appropriate standard as the head of state, tarnishing the reputation of both the Party and the State. The agency stated, “Comrade Vo Van Thuong’s violations and shortcomings have caused bad public opinion, affecting the reputation of the Party, State and himself personally,” further emphasizing his decision to step down from his official positions in acknowledgment of his responsibility.
Thuong ascended to the presidency on March 2 last year following the unexpected resignation of President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, a departure uncommon in Vietnam’s political landscape known for its carefully managed transitions and emphasis on stability. Prior to Phuc’s resignation, only one other Communist Party president had relinquished power, and that was due to health reasons.
