He emphasized that this public sentiment is the most accurate measure of the leader's impact, urging others to follow his exemplary model of dedication and integrity.

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From early morning, a long line of people waited to pay their respects to General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, stretching down Han Thuyen Street. Photo: N. Huyen

Historian Duong Trung Quoc expressed his sentiments upon witnessing the scene: “Our ancestors said it, President Ho said it, and the late General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong also said it: The truest measure is the people's affection. We see the people here showing that very clearly. The public’s love is the most precise measure.”

Having witnessed the mourning periods for both President Ho Chi Minh and General Vo Nguyen Giap, Duong Trung Quoc remarked, “This sorrowful event for our country awakens many people.”

He added, “The public's sentiment in this event exemplifies the saying 'true sentiment comes at the end.' The people’s affection for the late General Secretary will awaken the conscience and responsibility of many. There have been exemplary figures, so why can’t others follow their lead?”

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Historian Duong Trung Quoc attends the memorial service for General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. Photo: N. Huyen

Among those waiting to pay their respects was Nguyen Van Hung, 64, from Viet Hung, Long Bien district, Hanoi. He has felt deep sorrow since hearing the news of the General Secretary's passing.

Through the media, Hung learned that public visitation started at 6pm the previous evening, but fearing he might not make it in time, he decided to queue early in the morning.

Without having breakfast, he brought a baguette along. By 5am, he had arrived at Lo Duc Street, finding a long line of people already waiting.

Hung said tearfully, “General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong's passing is a great loss for me personally and for the Vietnamese people. I am deeply moved by his exemplary integrity and his consistency between words and actions, serving as a role model for all.”

Kieu Thi That, from Kim Bang district, Ha Nam province, took a bus at 3am to arrive at Lo Duc Street by 5am. Since hearing the news, she has felt profound sorrow for the leader who dedicated himself to his work until the end.

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Mrs. Kieu Thi That traveled from Ha Nam province to Hanoi to bid farewell to General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. Photo: N. Huyen

“At his age, people in my hometown would be retired, enjoying time with their grandchildren, but he continued working until his last breath. I feel immense sorrow and respect. That’s why I came here today, to light an incense stick for him,” said That.

After the visitation, she plans to wait until the afternoon to accompany the General Secretary to his final resting place.

N. Huyen