President of Vietnam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids President of theSocialist Republic of Vietnam |
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Emblem of Vietnam
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| Style | Mr. President (informal) His Excellency (diplomatic) |
| Member of |
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| Residence | Presidential Palace |
| Nominator | Standing Committee of the National Assembly |
| Appointer | National Assembly |
| Term length | Five years, no term limits |
| Constituting instrument | Constitution of Vietnam |
| Inaugural holder | Hồ Chí Minh |
| Formation | 2 September 1945 |
| Deputy | Vice President |
| Salary | 30,420,000₫ monthly |
The President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is the official head of state for Vietnam. This important leader is chosen by the National Assembly of Vietnam from its members. Since Vietnam is a one-party state, candidates for this job are suggested by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
The President is usually seen as the second most powerful person in Vietnam's government. They are ranked just after the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam. As the head of state, the President represents Vietnam both inside the country and to other nations. They help make sure the government runs smoothly and protects Vietnam's independence and land.
Contents
Becoming President: How it Works
To become President, a person must first be a member of the National Assembly of Vietnam. Usually, the President is also a member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam and the Politburo of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
- The Central Committee of the Communist Party suggests candidates.
- These names go to the Standing Committee of the National Assembly.
- The Standing Committee then confirms and suggests these candidates for an official election.
- Finally, all members of the National Assembly vote to elect the President.
The President also chooses other important leaders. They appoint the vice president, prime minister, and other ministers. The National Assembly must agree to these choices.
What the President Does
The President of Vietnam has many important jobs. They are the top leader of the Vietnam People's Armed Forces. This means they are the commander-in-chief of the military. They also lead the Council for National Defense and Security.
Since 2011, the President has also been in charge of the Central Steering Committee for Judicial Reform. This committee works to improve the justice system.
Presidential Powers and Duties
The President is the head of state and represents Vietnam. They are elected by the National Assembly and report to it. The President's term lasts five years. Here are some of their key powers:
- Making Laws: The President officially announces new laws and important decisions.
- Protecting the Country: They take steps to protect Vietnam's independence and land. They also make sure all parts of the government work well together.
- Appointing Leaders: The President suggests who should be the vice president, prime minister, and chief justice. They also appoint other government officials and military leaders.
- Leading Meetings: The President can lead meetings of the Government of Vietnam.
- Declaring Emergencies: With approval, the President can declare a state of war or a national emergency.
- International Relations: They appoint ambassadors to other countries and welcome foreign ambassadors to Vietnam. They also sign international agreements.
- Citizenship: The President can grant or take away Vietnamese citizenship.
- Awards: They give out military ranks, diplomatic titles, and national awards.
The National Defense and Security Council
The President leads the National Defense and Security Council (NDSC). This council includes the President, the Prime Minister, and other members. The President suggests who should be on the council, and the National Assembly approves them.
The NDSC makes decisions together. It has the power to use all national resources for defense. If there is a war, the National Assembly can give the NDSC special duties.
History of the Presidency
Hồ Chí Minh became Vietnam's first President in 1946. The early role of the President was quite powerful, similar to the President of the United States.
However, the 1959 Constitution changed things. The President became more of a symbolic leader, while the General Secretary of the Communist Party held most of the real power.
In 1980, the title of President was removed and replaced with "Chairman of the Council of State". This position was inspired by a similar role in the Soviet Union. The Council of State was a group that made decisions together.
The office of President was brought back in the 1992 Constitution.
Importance of the President Over Time
The power of the President has changed throughout Vietnam's history.
- Hồ Chí Minh was very powerful, also leading the Communist Party.
- His successor, Tôn Đức Thắng, had less power and was more of a symbolic figure.
- Later, leaders like Trường Chinh and Trương Tấn Sang held higher ranks within the Politburo, making the presidency more influential again.
- Some presidents, like Nguyễn Phú Trọng, have even held both the President and General Secretary roles at the same time, making them the top leader in the country.
How Long Does a President Serve?
The President serves for a term of five years. A president can serve up to three terms. Their term continues until a new president is elected and takes office.
When a new President starts their job, they take an oath before the parliament:
In my capacity as President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, I swear complete allegiance to the country, people, and constitution; to fulfill the tasks assigned by the State, and people.
What Happens if the President Can't Serve?
If the President cannot do their job for a long time, the Vice President steps in as acting President. If the presidency becomes empty, the Vice President acts as President until the National Assembly elects a new one.
For example, Vice President Võ Thị Ánh Xuân served as acting President twice, in 2023 and 2024. Before her, Đặng Thị Ngọc Thịnh was the first woman to be acting President in Vietnam's history, after President Trần Đại Quang passed away in 2018.
General Lương Cường is the current President of Vietnam. He started his role on October 21, 2024.
See also
- List of presidents of Socialist Vietnam
- List of heads of state of Vietnam
- Vice President of Vietnam
- Prime Minister of Vietnam
- General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam
Images for kids
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A diagram showing the power structure in Vietnam, with the President's role.
