Vietnamese pop star Mai Khoi in her music video, Selfie Orgasm. (Youtube: Mai Khoi)

Pop star Mai Khoi has joined a group of lawyers, journalists and political activists running for parliament in Hanoi, testing the limits of freedom in the authoritarian nation.

The pink-haired singer, often dubbed Vietnam’s Lady Gaga for her provocative outfits and lyrics, is among 100 independent candidates who have reportedly registered to compete in May’s National Assembly elections.

“Many people are surprised and wonder why a singer like me wants to join the National Assembly, she told Reuters, “Everyone should care about politics. It affects all our lives… The NA allows chances to speak up.”

If elected, the 32-year old aspiring politician – says she would address social issues including same-sex marriages, violence against women and artistic freedom.

On paper, Vietnam has a democratic constitution which allows anyone over 21 to seek election to parliament.

However, Academic Nguyen Quang A – another candidate – says in reality, the Communist Party controls more than 90 per cent of the 500-seat government, with remaining lawmakers being mostly wealthy businesspeople seeking to advance their interests.

– TiVi Tuan-san