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| Voters in Tan Son Hoa ward, Ho Chi Minh City, scan a QR code to access the biographies of candidates for the 16th National Assembly and the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Council for the 2026-31 tenure __Photo: VNA |
The upcoming election of deputies to the 16th National Assembly and People’s Councils at all levels for the 2026-31 tenure features noteworthy new aspects, not only in terms of organisation but also in the operational context of the political system, said Le Quang Manh, Secretary General of the National Assembly, Chairman of the National Assembly Office, and Chief of the Office of the National Election Council.
Firstly, it is the first time the election is organised under a two-tier local administration model following the reorganisation of administrative units. As each administrative unit now covers a broader area and a larger population, demands on governance capacity have become greater. This directly affects the determination of the structure of deputies, the allocation of deputy seats, and the organisation of consultation conferences.
Previously, voter meetings or discussions on candidates’ biographies were held within relatively small communities. Now, candidates must now be able to reach all groups of residents across a wider geographical area. This represents a significant change that requires thorough preparations.
Secondly, digital transformation has become an effective tool throughout the process. Connecting and cross-checking voter lists with the National Population Database, along with the application of platforms, such as VNeID, helps improve accuracy and minimise overlapped or erroneous information.
However, technology serves merely as a supporting tool. The core element remains the responsibility of individuals in reviewing, verifying, and being accountable for each stage and task. Hence, alongside the application of digital systems, particular emphasis has been placed on training and professional guidance for grassroots officials.
Thirdly, the electoral procedures have been shortened as compared with the previous tenures. This does not reduce the strict requirements of each step; rather, it requires closer coordination between related agencies, more systematic handling of tasks, and avoidance of overlaps. Each stage can be seen as a link in a chain; if one link is delayed or inaccurate, the entire schedule will be affected. As a result, stricter criteria on discipline and responsibility are required.
Fourthly, it is scheduled to increase the number of full-time National Assembly deputies, projected at 145 at the central level and 55 at the local level. The move reflects efforts to further improve the quality of operation of the National Assembly. Full-time deputies are able to dedicate all their time to parliamentary duties and monitor policy areas more closely, thereby improving professionalism in legislative activities. Such is also associated with the requirement of further developing the law-ruled state and improving the effectiveness of national governance in the country’s new stage of development.
In light of these new changes, Chairman of the National Assembly and Chairman of the National Election Council Tran Thanh Man urges agencies and localities, particularly at the grassroots level, to make thorough preparations for every stage of the election process and closely monitor local conditions. Such diligence is essential to ensure all stages are organised carefully and operate smoothly, contributing to the success of the election, he added.- (VLLF)
