Vietnam Communists hail poll result

Authorities say almost 50 million people voted

By Claire Arthurs BBC correspondent in Hanoi

The results of last week's national elections in Vietnam have been announced, with the ruling Communist Party continuing to dominate the national parliament.

The Communist Party has pledged to fight corruption

The election campaign did not have any opposition parties, which are banned in Vietnam, although 13 independent candidates ran.

Out of almost 500 deputies elected to the 11th National Assembly, only 51 are not Party members.

With an average of less than two candidates for each seat, and no policy debate, 19 May was not an election about alternatives.

'Great success'

But for Vietnam's communist authorities, who took victory in 90% of the seats, the election for the National Assembly was a winner.

The deputy chair of the Assembly, Mai Thuc Lan, said that voter turnout was more than 99%, and almost 50 million people cast a ballot.

Mr Lan says the election was conducted in a lawful, democratic, safe and orderly manner.

In short, he says, it was a great success.

Thirteen independents got through a selection process overseen by the party.

Only two - both in the capital Hanoi - were elected, and Mr Lan says many were either too old or too young to win the confidence of voters.

Diversity

The new parliament has more than 300 first-time members - reflecting moves to make them younger and better educated. Eleven per cent are under 40 and 93% have a university education.

The new Assembly will play a role in preparing for entrance to the WTO

Under a quota system, more than a quarter are women, just under 100 represent more than 50 ethnic minority groups, and 14 are religious leaders.

And 25 are business people, reflecting the party's acceptance of entrepreneurs in modernising Vietnam.

The new assembly will have an important role in government plans to reform Vietnam's legal system, and to enter the World Trade Organisation.

Corruption issues

But there were two significant hiccups in the election.

The campaign was dominated by corruption issues, and the disqualification of three candidates - including a senior party official who continues to run the national radio broadcaster, Voice of Vietnam.

He has been linked to jailed crime boss Nam Cam.

And more than 1,000 voters in a small constituency near Hanoi had a second poll on Friday after election officials failed to stamp their registration cards.

The officials will have to self-criticise and face disciplinary action.

The new parliament must meet by 19 July.