Ho Chi Minh City voters hope for competent candidates in upcoming elections

Nearly 9.7 million voters in Ho Chi Minh (HCM) City are preparing to head to the polls on March 15 to elect deputies to the National Assembly at the centre and local people’s councils for the 2026–31 term.

This will be the first election held after the nationwide administrative reorganisation of provinces and cities and the introduction of a two-tier local government model in July last year.

Under the new system, directions from the city Election Committee are conveyed directly to grassroots authorities, which are regarded as the front line of election work.

This approach helps expedite preparations while allowing local authorities to respond quickly to emerging issues.

Across the city, preparations are under way with urgency as millions of ballot papers are set to reach voters.

According to the city Election Committee, voter lists have been publicly posted at commune-level People’s Committee offices, neighbourhood community venues and other public locations.

Election teams across the city are distributing voter cards, with some working through the night to ensure they reach eligible voters in time. Each household also receives documents to brief them about candidates’ backgrounds and action plans.

HCM City has organised thousands of voter meetings, both in person and online, attracting millions of participants. These allow the public to learn about candidates’ programmes and evaluate their capability and commitment before voting.

As the country’s largest urban centre with more than 14 million residents, the city faces new opportunities and challenges, and voters expect those elected to work for its development.

Phạm Tien Canh, a retired military officer in Hamlet 38 of Hoc Mon Commune, said deputies should have suitable professional backgrounds to participate in legislative discussions.

“A deputy must listen to voters and reflect their opinions honestly.” 

Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong, 70, a voter in Ban Co Ward, said she has seen positive changes in grassroots administration, especially among ward leaders.

“Ward leaders today are younger, more dynamic and closer to residents. This change makes older voters very pleased and creates high expectations.”

Younger voters are placing their hopes on technological innovation and housing policies.

Nguyen Huu Nhan, a voter in Phu Nhuan Ward, said: “I am interested in candidates who make a strong commitment to digital infrastructure and social housing. With more than 14 million people, the city needs deputies who dare think big and take bold action to create a modern living space.”

Nguyen Thi Thanh, a factory worker living in HCM City, said she used to be worried that the voice of a worker would rarely be heard in a large city, but since the two-tier local government model was established, many administrative procedures at ward level are handled quicker.

She hoped that the deputies elected this time would ensure that city policies remain closely connected to the lives of workers.