Vietnam has announced the release of 9,950 prisoners in early June, a large‑scale amnesty issued shortly after the country’s recent parliamentary elections and the conclusion of the Communist Party Congress. The order was signed by To Lam, who currently serves as both President and General Secretary of the Communist Party, making this one of the most significant political amnesties in recent years.
Deputy Public Security Minister Le Van Tuyen said the amnesty was intended to commemorate the successful political events, describing it as a gesture that reflects the state’s policy of leniency and rehabilitation. “The amnesty marks the success of the Communist Party Congress and the elections to the National Assembly,” he said at a press conference.
Vietnam regularly grants amnesties to mark major national occasions, political milestones and anniversaries. This year’s release includes 63 foreign prisoners — 56 men and seven women — though authorities did not disclose their nationalities or identities. Under Vietnamese law, inmates convicted of crimes such as terrorism, attempting to overthrow the government, or other offences deemed threatening to national security are not eligible for amnesty.
Officials said the decision reflects Vietnam’s long‑standing approach of combining strict law enforcement with opportunities for reintegration. The government emphasised that those selected for release had demonstrated good behaviour, completed rehabilitation programmes and met the criteria set by the Ministry of Public Security.
Vietnam has used large‑scale amnesties in the past as part of national celebrations. In 2025, authorities released more than 22,000 prisoners, the highest number in a single year, during events marking the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon.
The latest amnesty is expected to take effect in the first week of June, with provincial authorities preparing documentation, verification and reintegration support for the nearly 10,000 inmates who will be freed.