Story perspectives

Today in History: Brother of President Diem executed by military junta

5/9/2026

45 6

Summary

Story summary

On May 9, Nguyen Khánh’s military junta executed Ngô Dình Can, the younger brother who had ruled central South Vietnam as Diem’s virtual dictator. After Diem’s 1963 overthrow, Can was arrested, tried for abuses by his private armies and secret police, and put to death under Khánh’s regime.

1 of 1

Story summary

On May 9, Nguyen Khánh’s military junta executed Ngô Dình Can, the younger brother who had ruled central South Vietnam as Diem’s virtual dictator. After Diem’s 1963 overthrow, Can was arrested, tried for abuses by his private armies and secret police, and put to death under Khánh’s regime.