Brian Jeffrey
On November 15, the trial for Truong My Lan and 47 others progressed to the debate phase.
When the prosecution reiterated their request for the death penalty, Lan seemed visibly shaken, struggling to maintain her composure. She sought permission to speak in court.
“If I’m not given the chance to speak, I might pass out right here,” Lan stated, her voice quivering.
Allowed to address the court, Lan thanked the prosecution for the reduction of some charges but earnestly asked both the court and the prosecution to reconsider the allegations of “embezzlement” and “bribery.”
“Hearing such a severe sentence today has left me mentally distressed. I sincerely urge the court and the prosecution to closely evaluate these charges. I only wish to settle my debts with the State Bank of Vietnam,” she conveyed.
Lan emphasized her accountability, sharing her decade-long dedication to SCB Bank and urged the court to reexamine the information available and to allow verification with SCB Bank, reiterating her innocence regarding any misappropriation of funds.
Lawyer Phan Trung Hoai, representing Truong My Lan, pointed out that before the appellate trial, Lan had sought assistance from the Civil Enforcement Bureau based on both phases of the first-instance trial verdict, even before it became legally binding.
In the appellate proceedings, Lan’s perspective shifted; she no longer contested her convictions but requested a comprehensive evaluation of the factors and circumstances surrounding her case, particularly concerning financial data linked to claims of embezzlement or damages.
New findings regarding financial transactions aimed at damage mitigation have surfaced, along with proposed solutions to reclaim damages. These efforts are directed toward revitalizing and developing projects and assets to generate funds for proper restitution, in accordance with Lan’s voluntary commitments.
Lawyer Hoai appealed to the court to consider Lan’s personal history and family background, as well as the broader context of the case. He highlighted the importance of reviewing SCB Bank’s restructuring plan and the State Bank of Vietnam’s approval for SCB’s 2012 proposal concerning new loans for debt restructuring.
The lawyer called for a more compassionate approach, urging the court to weigh the Party’s and State’s policies on leniency and mercy when reexamining the previously assigned death penalty for the “embezzlement” charges.
