Thousands of mourners gathered in Hanoi for the second day of the funeral of Communist Party general secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, who passed away at the age of 80 last week. Trong's death has initiated a succession struggle within the party that is expected to continue until the National Party Congress in 2026.
Trong's coffin, adorned with Vietnam's flag, was placed at the National Funeral House in Hanoi, where top Communist Party officials paid their respects. The two-day period of national mourning saw flags flown at half mast and sports and entertainment activities suspended across the nation.
Trong will be laid to rest at Mai Dich cemetery, a burial ground for military heroes and senior party officials. Notable figures from around the world, including South Korean Prime Minister, Chinese Communist Party leaders, former Japanese Prime Minister, Cuban National Assembly President, and Indian National Security Advisor, attended the funeral to pay their respects.
Trong, known for his pragmatic foreign policy approach dubbed 'bamboo diplomacy,' was praised by world leaders for his efforts in strengthening international ties. He spearheaded an anti-corruption campaign within the party, resulting in the discipline of numerous officials, including former presidents and members of the Politburo.
The future of the anti-corruption movement and party leadership remains uncertain following Trong's passing. Caretaker general secretary To Lam is expected to continue in his role until 2026, with speculation that he may succeed Trong permanently. However, the party faces challenges in resolving internal factions and determining its future direction without Trong's leadership.
