Lao Leader Extends Rule as Party Congress Shifts Power

The leader of Laos's ruling Communist Party has been reappointed for a second five-year term. The decision was made during the country's 12th National Congress this week. The congress also approved a major change in leadership. Several older revolutionaries, who fought to establish the communist state, have now retired. They are being replaced by a group of younger, technically-skilled officials, often called technocrats. This shift suggests a focus on governing and economic management. However, the one-party political system remains unchanged. The party chief holds the most powerful position in Laos.