On April 28, 2025, the 30th session of the Cao Bang Provincial People's Council convened, marking a significant step toward restructuring the local government. This specialized session approved crucial resolutions aimed at streamlining government operations and enhancing economic growth in the province for the year 2025.
The council passed a resolution focused on the arrangement and reorganization of administrative units at the commune level in Cao Bang province. This initiative is pivotal, representing a concrete step to implement the major policies of the Party and the State, as well as the province's objectives to innovate and optimize the local government structure for increased efficiency.
The plan involves merging the existing 161 commune-level administrative units across ten districts and cities, which include eight wards, 139 communes, and 14 towns. This reorganization will create 56 new administrative units, comprising 53 communes and three wards, effectively reducing the number of units by 105.
Among the newly formed administrative units is Thục Phán Ward, established by merging five existing units: Sông Hiến Ward, Đề Thám Ward, Hợp Giang Ward, Hưng Đạo Commune, and Hoàng Tung Commune. This new ward will have its administrative headquarters at the current Cao Bang city government office.
Another new unit, Nùng Trí Cao Ward, will be formed from the merger of three existing units: Sông Bằng Ward, Ngọc Xuân Ward, and Vĩnh Quang Commune, with its headquarters located in Ngọc Xuân Ward. Similarly, Tân Giang Ward will be created from the merger of five units, including Tân Giang Ward and several communes.
This restructuring is not just about reducing the number of administrative units; it is also about creating a more effective governance model that aligns with the two-level local government model. The new administrative units are designed to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring that local governance meets the needs of the communities it serves.
In a parallel development, on April 29, 2025, the Nghe An Provincial People's Council reported on the arrangement of administrative units in Vinh City during its 28th session. This session also focused on passing a resolution to streamline the existing administrative framework, which will ultimately reduce the number of wards in Vinh City to just six.
The Vinh City Party Executive Committee has agreed to a draft plan to solicit public opinion on the names of the new wards following the administrative reorganization. The proposed new wards include Vinh - Yen Truong Ward, which will be formed from the merger of several existing wards and communes, and Thanh Vinh Ward, which will comprise areas from Quang Trung, Le Loi, and other localities.
Additionally, Vinh Hung Ward will be created by merging units such as Quan Bau and Hung Dong, while Vinh Phu Ward will combine areas from Nghi Phu and Nghi Duc. The city’s administration has been tasked with ensuring that public opinion is collected by May 5, 2025, before the final naming decision is made on May 7, 2025.
In Hanoi, a similar restructuring is underway, with the city council recently approving a comprehensive plan that will see the formation of 126 new wards and communes. This plan aims to enhance governance efficiency and promote socio-economic development while ensuring public security and order.
According to reports from the Hanoi City People's Council, the arrangement plan was executed with careful consideration and adherence to legal standards, ensuring a comprehensive and unified approach throughout the political system. The plan received overwhelming support from the public, with over 97% of votes in favor of the proposed changes.
The new administrative units will be named to reflect cultural and historical significance, preserving the identities of the localities involved. This careful consideration of naming is aimed at fostering a sense of community and continuity amidst the changes.
In the province of Lai Chau, a report indicated that 104 commune-level administrative units are slated for reorganization. This restructuring aims to reduce the number of units from 106 to 38, effectively streamlining governance and enhancing the capacity for local administration.
The proposed changes in Lai Chau include the merger of several communes into new units, such as the formation of Mường Kim from the merger of Mường Kim, Tà Mung, and others. The new units will be strategically placed to ensure effective governance and service delivery.
These widespread administrative reforms across various provinces not only aim to streamline local government but also to address the evolving needs of the population. By consolidating resources and enhancing operational efficiency, these initiatives are expected to foster economic growth and improve service delivery at the local level.
As these changes are implemented, local governments are tasked with ensuring that the transition is smooth and that public services remain effective. The focus remains on creating a governance structure that is not only efficient but also responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.
In conclusion, the administrative restructuring across provinces such as Cao Bang, Nghe An, Hanoi, and Lai Chau reflects a broader trend towards improving governance in Vietnam. By streamlining administrative units and focusing on efficiency, these reforms aim to enhance the ability of local governments to serve their communities effectively.
