"Uncle Ho Lives Forever" inscription endures on Nhón Mountain

On Nhón Mountain in Nghệ An province, Vietnam, the inscription "Bác Hồ sống mãi" (Uncle Ho Lives Forever) has been etched for over half a century. This historical legacy is being preserved through the collaborative efforts of local residents, military personnel, and administrative officials. This initiative extends beyond merely safeguarding a historical symbol. It is positioned as a crucial endeavor to perpetuate the revolutionary traditions emphasized by the Communist Party of Vietnam and to fortify the "people's defense posture" (thế trận lòng dân) at the grassroots level. The "people's defense posture" is a concept advocated by the Communist Party of Vietnam for state governance based on the support and trust of the people. It is particularly emphasized in fostering social stability and loyalty to the Party in local areas. The preservation activities of the inscription on Nhón Mountain are expected to have an educational effect, nurturing patriotism and a sense of belonging to the Party among local residents within this political and social context. Under Vietnam's one-party system, Uncle Ho Chi Minh is revered as the founding father, and his image and words are inscribed and preserved in various locations as symbols of national unity. The case of Nhón Mountain exemplifies a concrete initiative to embody and maintain such national ideology at the local level. While Vietnam continues to experience economic growth, issues of development lag and disparities persist in rural areas. In this context, the preservation of historical and political symbols can also serve as a spiritual pillar for confirming national identity and maintaining national unity, even amidst challenging circumstances.