On the morning of 24/9, the National Assembly Standing Committee discussed the draft Law on Grassroots Democracy Implementation (amended). This draft law aims to regulate how citizens participate in discussions, provide feedback, and oversee activities within residential communities, agencies, and units.

National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man emphasized the need for clarity regarding citizen feedback. He questioned who is responsible for responding after citizens submit their opinions and how they will be informed of the results.

According to Chairman Man, ensuring citizens are informed, involved in discussions, and able to provide feedback remains incomplete if the process for receiving and handling their input is not transparent. He stressed that merely transferring petitions or letters to another agency should not be considered a resolution of public requests.

Chairman Man proposed that the draft law clearly specify the designated body for receiving feedback, the circumstances under which a response is mandatory, and the timeframe for such responses. Should feedback fall outside the receiving agency's jurisdiction, it must be forwarded to the appropriate entity, with citizens simultaneously notified of where their input is being processed.

"Do not let citizens give feedback without knowing where their opinions go", he said, underscoring that the responsibility to listen, explain, and respond must be consistently embedded throughout the law.

National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man gave his opinion at the morning session on 24/9. Photo: National Assembly Electronic Information Portal

He also noted that voter outreach efforts in some areas remain superficial. The content of these meetings needs to evolve to genuinely gather input from citizens, businesses, and various social groups. Utilizing online platforms could broaden the reach of these interactions, moving beyond a focus solely on the number of meetings held.

Regarding proposed changes in the draft law, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Nguyen Thu Ha stated that the government recommends diversifying methods for implementing democracy in the digital environment. This includes strengthening the People's Inspection Board and the Community Investment Supervision Board, and developing a set of criteria to evaluate grassroots democracy implementation.

Deputy Prime Minister Pham Thi Thanh Tra highlighted that the law's amendment aims to bring government closer to the people, enhance accountability, and meet citizens' oversight demands, particularly in the context of organizing two-tier local governments.

The Committee for Public Aspirations and Supervision, the agency tasked with reviewing the draft law, also called for clarification on the responsibilities of competent authorities to receive, explain, and respond to public feedback.

Committee Chairwoman Le Thi Nga raised two additional issues for consideration: how to accurately calculate the "over 50% of the population" ratio when collecting feedback through various channels, and how to effectively combine direct and electronic methods to ensure that individuals with limited access to technology can still participate and vote.

The draft law is slated for submission to the National Assembly for review during its October session.

Son Ha