Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

After a major anti-corruption campaign, Vietnam has approved To Lam, the country’s former public security minister, as its new president.

The National Assembly unanimously elected To Lam, 66, following his sole candidacy and nomination by the ruling Communist Party. This decision follows the recent resignation of his predecessor, Vo Van Thuong, amid allegations of “violations and shortcomings.”

Lam has been key in the anti-corruption initiative known as “Blazing Furnace,” which has implicated numerous senior officials and business leaders. This campaign, where Lam served as the deputy head of the steering committee, significantly shaped his political rise in the country. In his inaugural address, Lam committed to persistently advancing the fight against corruption.

Despite his stance against corruption, Lam has been involved in controversies surrounding government surveillance and suppression of dissent within the country. Rights groups claim that government crackdowns on these protests have led to roughly 200 activists being imprisoned, with information about their well-being being scant or unknown. 

In addition, Lam appeared in a controversial video in 2021 eating a gold-encrusted steak during Vietnam’s COVID-19 lockdown, which sparked public outrage.