On April 18, 2025, the People's Committee of Nghe An province took a significant step towards administrative reform by approving a project aimed at restructuring its commune-level administrative units. This plan proposes a dramatic reduction of the current 412 administrative units, which include 362 communes, 33 wards, and 17 towns, down to just 130 units, comprising 119 communes and 11 wards. This reduction represents a staggering decrease of 68.45%, a move that officials believe will streamline governance and enhance local administration.
The meeting, chaired by Le Hong Vinh, Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and Chairman of the People's Committee, focused on discussing the draft project for the arrangement of these administrative units and the establishment of a two-level local government model. Vinh emphasized the need for careful planning and execution of the project, which aims to not only consolidate administrative units but also to ensure that the new structure meets the needs of local governance.
During the session, the Department of Home Affairs reported on the current status of the commune-level administrative units, presenting criteria for restructuring in line with the resolutions set forth by the National Assembly Standing Committee. The report highlighted that while 126 of the 130 proposed administrative units met the necessary standards, four units did not but were deemed to have unique characteristics that warranted their inclusion.
As part of the project, a detailed plan and timeline for the consolidation and reorganization of governmental structures will be developed. This includes addressing redundant public assets and headquarters that may arise from the restructuring process. Nguyen Viet Hung, Director of the Nghe An Department of Home Affairs, urged local districts and towns to study the project thoroughly, ensuring widespread public awareness and support to achieve a high voter turnout and consensus during the approval process.
In preparation for the upcoming Provincial People's Council meeting, scheduled for April 28, 2025, Vinh called for careful consideration in naming the newly formed communes. He stressed that names should facilitate ease of transaction for residents while preserving the local traditions, culture, and history. This thoughtful approach to naming reflects a commitment to maintaining community identity amid significant administrative changes.
Moreover, Vinh instructed relevant agencies to review and enhance the project with plans for appropriate working headquarters for the new administrative units, ensuring that they are equipped to meet operational demands post-restructuring. He emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in the allocation of civil servants and resources to avoid disparities where more favorable areas attract more personnel while less advantageous areas struggle.
The project is not just about reducing the number of administrative units; it is also about improving the effectiveness and efficiency of local governance. Vinh highlighted the need for a coordinated approach among various levels of government to facilitate a smooth transition. This includes compiling voter lists, gathering public opinions, and organizing meetings at both commune and district levels to ensure that the project aligns with community needs and expectations.
As the restructuring process unfolds, there will be a focus on ensuring continuity in governance. Vinh insisted that the leadership must remain strong throughout the transition, preventing any disruptions in services or governance. He noted that it is crucial to maintain regular communication with the public and to address any concerns that may arise during the implementation of the project.
The approval of this project marks a pivotal moment for Nghe An province, as it seeks to modernize its administrative framework and enhance the effectiveness of local governance. The restructuring aims to create a more agile and responsive government that can better serve its citizens in a rapidly changing environment.
In addition to the administrative restructuring, the meeting also discussed several other resolutions, including amendments to the land price table for the province and allocations for the national sustainable poverty reduction program for 2025. These initiatives highlight the provincial government's commitment to addressing economic and social challenges while implementing necessary administrative reforms.
As Nghe An province moves forward with its ambitious plans, the success of this restructuring will depend largely on the collaboration between government bodies and the active participation of the local community. By fostering a spirit of cooperation and transparency, the province hopes to navigate the complexities of administrative change while ensuring that the voices of its citizens are heard and respected.
