Choummaly Sayasone, Laotian politician, 5th President of Laos

Lieutenant General Choummaly Sayasone (Lao: ຈູມມະລີ ໄຊຍະສອນ), a prominent Laotian politician, held the dual roles of General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and President of Laos from 2006 to 2016. His decade at the helm of the country saw him serve as the supreme leader, guiding Laos through a significant period in its modern history.

Born on March 6, 1936, in the southern province of Attapu, Choummaly Sayasone's long and distinguished career within the LPRP, the sole ruling party of Laos, began decades before he reached the nation's highest offices. His dedication and strategic acumen became evident early on as he steadily ascended the political ranks. He was inducted into the Party's influential Politburo in 1991, a clear indication of his growing influence and leadership capabilities within the tightly-knit political structure of Laos. For a decade, from 1991 to 2001, he served as the Minister of Defence, a critical portfolio that further solidified his standing and experience in national governance.

The Path to Supreme Leadership

Choummaly Sayasone's journey towards national leadership continued with his appointment as the third Vice President of Laos, a position he held from 2001 to 2006. This period served as a crucial stepping stone, preparing him for the ultimate responsibility. The political landscape shifted dramatically in March 2006. Following the Party's 8th Congress, the first plenum of the eighth Central Committee convened and, on March 21, 2006, elected Choummaly Sayasone as the LPRP's General Secretary. This pivotal election saw him succeed Khamtai Siphandone, effectively making him the de facto supreme leader of Laos. Just a few months later, on June 8, 2006, he also succeeded Siphandone as the 6th President of Laos, thus consolidating both party and state leadership under his command, a common practice in single-party states.

A Decade at the Helm: Leadership and Re-elections

During his tenure, Choummaly Sayasone was instrumental in shaping Laotian policy and direction. His leadership was reaffirmed in March 2011 when he was re-elected to his position as the LPRP's General Secretary at the 9th LPRP Congress. This was followed by his re-election as President of Laos in June 2011 by the seventh National Assembly, securing another term as head of state. These re-elections underscored the trust and confidence placed in him by the Party and the National Assembly, allowing him to continue his vision for the country.

His long and impactful career at the pinnacle of Laotian politics concluded in January 2016. At the 10th LPRP Congress, Choummaly Sayasone chose not to seek re-election to the LPRP Central Committee, signaling his retirement from active leadership. This decision paved the way for a new generation of leadership, with Bounnhang Vorachit being elected to succeed him as General Secretary on January 22, 2016.

A Tragic Incident in Later Life

Even after stepping down from his official duties, Choummaly Sayasone remained a respected figure. However, his later life was marked by a deeply tragic event. On April 4, 2021, while he and his family were on a yacht in Nam Ngum Lake, a sudden and severe storm struck, causing the vessel to capsize. Though initial reports sparked fears for his life, Choummaly Sayasone miraculously survived the harrowing ordeal. Sadly, the accident claimed the lives of nine people, including his beloved wife, Keosaychay Sayasone, and his son, a profound loss for the former leader and his surviving family.

Frequently Asked Questions about Choummaly Sayasone

Who is Choummaly Sayasone?

Choummaly Sayasone is a distinguished Laotian politician who served as the General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and President of Laos from 2006 to 2016, making him the supreme leader and head of state for a decade.

When and where was Choummaly Sayasone born?

He was born on March 6, 1936, in Attapu province, Laos.

What were his key political positions before becoming President?

Before his presidency, he served as a member of the LPRP Politburo (from 1991), Minister of Defence (1991-2001), and the third Vice President of Laos (2001-2006).

When did he become the General Secretary and President of Laos?

Choummaly Sayasone was elected LPRP General Secretary on March 21, 2006, and subsequently became the 6th President of Laos on June 8, 2006.

When did Choummaly Sayasone retire from political office?

He retired in January 2016, choosing not to seek re-election to the LPRP Central Committee at the 10th LPRP Congress.

What happened to Choummaly Sayasone's family in 2021?

In April 2021, he and his family were involved in a yacht accident on Nam Ngum Lake during a storm. While he survived, nine people died, including his wife, Keosaychay Sayasone, and his son.