HANOI: Vietnam’s top leader promised to fight corruption in an address Tuesday to a twice-a-decade congress of the Communist Party, where he is seeking expanded powers similar to China’s political structure. In just 17 months as general secretary, To Lam has swept aside rivals and centralized authority in an aggressive reform drive officials describe as a “revolution.” He accelerated a sweeping anti-corruption campaign that ensnared thousands of officials, thinned and streamlined bureaucracy, and pushed infrastructure investment.

To Lam, the current party general secretary, is seen as the lead contender for the top job.

HANOI: Vietnam’s top leader promised to fight corruption in an address Tuesday to a twice-a-decade congress of the Communist Party, where he is seeking expanded powers similar to…

The Communist Party leader is reportedly considering a dual role as party chief and Vietnam's president.