Day 18
Vietnam
In what some are claiming is a major victory in the anti-corruption campaign that has steadily been gaining momentum, the president resigned from his position after the ruling communist party held him responsible for offenses committed by people under his leadership. Two former deputy prime ministers had already been dismissed from their positions in the party. Last year more than 500 party members were prosecuted, and police investigations were up 50% more than the year before. Pray for a cleansing to take place, not just in the physical world related to corruption, but also in the spiritual world. Praise God that He is a good Father who loves to give good gifts. Pray that God’s goodness will be manifested in Vietnam this year (The Bible, Matthew 7:11).
Source: Vietnam President Nguyen Xuan Phuc quits amid Communist Party corruption crackdown (CNN)
Economic reforms launched in 1986 have brought about significant growth and development; its performance during recent years has been the fastest in the previous ten. Of its 95 million people, 70 percent are under the age of 35. One of the last Communist states in the world, Vietnam’s government exerts great power. The state enforces strict controls over political and religious expression. House churches remain illegal, and churches must register though approval is rarely given as Christianity is viewed with suspicion and considered a Western influence. In 2018 laws were introduced that were thought may improve freedom of religion. In some regions, churches have been encouraged by local authorities who noticed the difference in the communities where the Christians are active. However, in other regions, churches have been sentenced harshly for breaking the laws of meeting together.
