Senior monks on Friday lead a traditional ceremony to pay tribute to Politburo member of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee and President of the National Assembly, Mr Xaysomphone Phomvihane, to offer up prayers following his passing on August 8.  --Photos Sangkhomxay

Officials from various Party and State bodies wait in line to give offerings to monks during the blessing ceremony.

Members of Mr Xaysomphone Phomvihane’s family and senior Party and State officials share in a baci ceremony after the almsgiving.

Musicians play traditional instruments during the blessing ceremony for Mr Xaysomphone Phomvihane.

Officials and Mr Xaysomphone’s relatives gather for a meal following the almsgiving ceremony.