The National Assembly of Laos has appointed Saleumxay Kommasith as the country’s new prime minister. The appointment follows the resignation of his predecessor, Sonexay Siphandone, which Lao state media attributed to health reasons and a request for retirement.
The confirmation took place during a session of the National Assembly in the capital, Vientiane. Lawmakers approved the appointment of Saleumxay, who had been serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) General Secretary and State President Thongloun Sisoulith presented Saleumxay’s nomination to the assembly before the vote.
In his address to the assembly after the confirmation, Saleumxay Kommasith stated his commitment to leading the government in addressing the nation’s socio-economic challenges. According to reports from the state-run Vientiane Times, the new prime minister pledged to focus on economic stability, improving the livelihoods of the Lao people, and strengthening national defense and public security.
Saleumxay, a veteran diplomat and LPRP Central Committee member, has held several key government positions. He previously served as Laos’ permanent representative to the United Nations in New York before being appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs in 2016.
The leadership change comes as Laos contends with persistent economic pressures. According to data from international financial institutions such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, the country has faced high inflation, significant public debt, and a depreciating national currency, the kip. These factors have contributed to an increase in the cost of living and fuel shortages in recent years.
Sonexay Siphandone’s tenure as prime minister lasted less than two years. He was appointed to the position in December 2022. His resignation was accepted by the National Assembly prior to the vote for his successor.
As part of the government reshuffle, the National Assembly also approved the appointment of Phet Phomphiphak, formerly the Minister to the Government’s Office, as the new Minister of Foreign Affairs, filling the role vacated by Saleumxay.
