Vietnam’s Party Congress Tightens Security With Phone Ban and Offline Tablets

Post by : Saif

Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party has begun its most important political meeting under some of the strictest security rules the country has seen in years. Delegates attending the week-long party congress in Hanoi have been barred from using mobile phones and instead given special tablet computers with no internet access.

The congress, held once every five years, brings together about 1,600 delegates from across the country. These delegates represent more than five million party members and are responsible for choosing Vietnam’s top leaders for the coming years. At this meeting, they will vote to select the party’s central committee and approve major policy decisions that will guide the nation’s future.

According to people familiar with the arrangements, delegates were given Samsung tablets that can only connect to an internal network. These tablets allow access to official documents but block all outside communication. Mobile phone signals have also been jammed at the congress venue and nearby areas, making regular calls and messages impossible.

From the second day of the congress, delegates will not be allowed to carry mobile phones at all. Even those living in Hanoi have been instructed to stay in designated hotels or housing during the event. These steps are meant to limit contact with the outside world and ensure tight control over information.

The increased security reflects the importance of this political gathering. The congress is expected to confirm the current party chief, To Lam, for another term and possibly grant him stronger authority. Leadership choices made during this week could shape Vietnam’s direction for the rest of the decade.

The opening session took place in a large, formal hall decorated with red carpets and political symbols. Party leaders sat beneath a large statue of Ho Chi Minh, the founder of modern Vietnam, alongside images of Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin. The setting highlighted the party’s deep roots and strict traditions.

Journalists covering the congress are also facing tight rules. They are not allowed to carry mobile phones and must use the event’s official network on their computers. Media guidelines stress that reporting should not harm the image of Vietnam, its leaders, or its political system.

Vietnam is a one-party state where the government controls most information. However, the current measures go even further than usual, showing how sensitive the leadership transition is. Authorities appear determined to prevent leaks, outside influence, or unwanted public debate during the congress.

As Vietnam continues to grow economically and expand its global role, decisions made behind closed doors this week will have lasting effects. The strict controls at the congress underline how carefully the country’s leadership manages power, communication, and political change.

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