Brian Jeffrey
Noted historian Duong Trung Quoc shared his feelings upon observing the scenes: “Our predecessors, President Ho, and the late General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong have all emphasized it: The most accurate gauge is the people’s love. The public demonstration here underscores that unmistakably. The affection from the public is the most precise gauge.”
Having experienced the mourning for President Ho Chi Minh and General Vo Nguyen Giap, Duong Trung Quoc commented, “This somber occasion for our nation stirs many individuals.”
He further remarked, “The public sentiment during this event embodies the adage ‘true sentiment emerges in the end.’ The people’s fondness for the late General Secretary will awaken the conscience and duty of many. There have been role models; why can’t others follow suit?”
Among those waiting to pay their respects was 64-year-old Nguyen Van Hung from Viet Hung, Long Bien district, Hanoi, who has been profoundly saddened since learning of the General Secretary’s demise.
Upon hearing that public visitation began the previous evening at 6 pm, Hung, fearing he might miss it, chose to line up early in the morning.
Arriving at Lo Duc Street by 5 am without having breakfast, he carried a baguette with him. He found a queue of people already present.
With tears, Hung expressed, “The passing of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong is a significant loss for me personally and for the Vietnamese people. I am deeply touched by his exemplary honesty and consistency in his words and deeds, setting a model for everyone.”
Kieu Thi That, from Kim Bang district, Ha Nam province, boarded a bus at 3 am to reach Lo Duc Street by 5 am. She has been profoundly sorrowful since hearing the news about the leader who remained dedicated to his duties until the end.
“At his age, individuals in my hometown would be retired, enjoying time with grandchildren, but he continued working until his last breath. I feel immense sadness and admiration. That’s why I’m here today, to light incense for him,” That stated.
Post-visitation, she intends to remain until the afternoon to accompany the General Secretary to his final resting place.
