Photo: Radio Free Asia / Cong An Nhan Dan
Nay Y Blang is a member of the Central Highlands Evangelical Church of Christ – a religious group that is not officially recognized by the Vietnamese Communist Party. In May 2023, the Christian leader was arrested and charged with taking advantage of "democratic freedom to infringe upon the interests of the state," as well as "the legitimate rights and interests of organizations and individuals." These accusations arose from the prayer meetings he had been holding in his home.
During the trial, at which there was no defence lawyer present, Nay admitted to hosting the prayer meetings. Yet, he did not agree with the accusatory claims that the gatherings were subversive towards the government. Pastor Aga, who started the church and now lives in the United States, insists that the organization is strictly religious. However, at the end of the trial on January 26th, Nay was sentenced to 54 months in prison.
This is not the first time that Nay has been convicted for his Christian activities. In April 2005, he was sentenced to more than five years in prison for allegedly "undermining the unity policy." In September 2022, the believer was also fined for "abusing democratic freedoms and belief freedoms."
While registered religious groups in Vietnam face restrictions, members of unregistered groups (such as those who attend Nay's church) encounter frequent harassment, abuse and criminal charges. The persecution of unregistered churches is particularly severe in rural areas and for members of ethnic minorities. Additional information on the challenges experienced by Christians in Vietnam is available at our country report.
Pray that Nay will be encouraged and strengthened by the abiding presence of God's Spirit during his time in prison. While waiting for release from custody, may he receive opportunities to reach others for Christ through the life-changing message of the Gospel. Please also prayerfully remember the many other Christians in Vietnam who regularly encounter harassment from officials, asking the Lord to remind these persecuted believers of His unfailing love and sustaining promises.
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