Hanoi, Feb 27 (V7N)- A Vietnamese court has sentenced prominent journalist Huy Duc to 30 months in prison for criticizing the government on Facebook, according to state media reports on Thursday.

The 63-year-old journalist, one of Vietnam's most popular bloggers, was found guilty of violating state interests and abusing democratic freedoms.

The Hanoi court ruled that 13 Facebook posts by Huy Duc contained criticism of the country's communist leadership, particularly regarding corruption, media control, and relations with China.

According to AFP, Huy Duc previously worked for a state-controlled newspaper but became known for his outspoken criticism of the government.

The Vietnam News Agency reported that the trial was conducted in a very short time, reflecting the country's strict control over dissent and press freedom.

Vietnam has one of the most repressive environments for journalists, with authorities frequently jailing critics under vague national security laws.

END/RH/AJ