Vietnamese party veterans call for democracy: Radio Free Asia

WASHINGTON, Nov 17 (AFP) - Four Vietnamese Communist Party veterans have called in a letter for "all-encompassing democratization" and rule of law in Vietnam, Radio Free Asia (RFA) reported Tuesday.

Citing a letter sent to the National Assembly just days before it was to begin meeting on October 28, RFA identified its authors as Hoang Thuy Viet, Le Manh Nam, Doan Dan Thuc, and Tran Tri Tinh. The letter also called for a true market economy and respect for human rights in the socialist country, the US-funded broadcasting service reported.

It also denounced Do Muoi, past secretary-general of the Communist Party of Vietnam and now its supreme adviser, and his son-in-law for alleged corruption.

"Contradictions and contrasts in the life of the people are now at their extreme. The younger generation lives in an obstructed, futureless frame of mind," the letter read, according to RFA.

"The people's faith in the country's future is shaken and has fallen to pathetic lows. Our country is actually on the brink of bankruptcy and risks instability in every aspect."

"There is only one correct solution ... the road to all- encompassing democratization of the social and political life of the nation ... True democracy and freedom are the keys to bring our beloved Vietnamese fatherland towards a bright future."