General Secretary To Lam, in an article titled "National festival and responsibility before the people" published on 19/3, announced that on 15/3, over 76 million voters across the nation participated in the election of deputies to the 16th National Assembly and People's Councils at all levels for the 2026-2031 term, achieving a 99,68% turnout.

The Party leader noted that the election atmosphere nationwide was vibrant, resembling a national festival. From early morning, voters in localities arrived at polling stations, selecting "virtuous and talented" individuals to represent their trust and aspirations for the nation's future. Even many elderly voters, having participated in numerous elections, expressed emotion while casting their ballots.

This spirit of a "national festival" extended from the plains to the mountains, and from urban centers to border areas and islands. In challenging regions, election teams utilized mobile ballot boxes to reach the elderly, infirm, and patients at home, ensuring every citizen exercised their right to vote. "Voting was never a mere formality anywhere; truly across the country, election day became a national festival," the General Secretary affirmed.

General Secretary To Lam casts his vote for National Assembly and People's Council deputies in Ba Dinh ward, Hanoi, on 15/3. *Photo: Giang Huy*

He highlighted that this year's election coincided with the 80th anniversary of the first General Election held on 6/1/1946. From its first to 15th terms, the Vietnamese National Assembly has consistently represented the great national unity bloc, bringing together deputies from all social strata, ethnic groups, and religions.

The high voter turnout underscores the political consciousness, civic responsibility, patriotism, and public trust in the Party's leadership. Citizens actively participated, researching candidates' biographies and action programs to elect deserving representatives. The election was conducted democratically, equally, lawfully, safely, and efficiently.

The General Secretary affirmed the election results as a victory for the people, placing significant responsibility on the newly elected deputies. These representatives will articulate the people's will and aspirations for the next five years, participating in decisions on key national issues.

The 2026-2031 term unfolds as Vietnam strives to become a developed, high-income nation by 2045. Consequently, the 16th National Assembly and People's Councils at all levels must undertake vigorous innovation, enhancing the quality of legislation, oversight, and decision-making on critical socio-economic, budgetary, defense, and foreign affairs matters.

Beyond parliamentary duties, each deputy must maintain close ties with voters, listening and promptly addressing societal issues. The General Secretary stressed that deputies must be exemplary and upright, always recalling President Ho Chi Minh's teaching: "prioritize national interests, forget personal gain, prioritize common good, forget individual interests," resolutely opposing individualism and shunning group interests.

General Secretary To Lam and Permanent Member of the Secretariat Tran Cam Tu cast their votes for National Assembly and People's Council deputies in Ba Dinh ward, Hanoi, on 15/3. *Photo: Giang Huy*

The General Secretary also observed that the significant number of first-time deputies represents a new dynamic, bringing creative energy. However, this necessitates their rapid development of capacity and operational skills. Deputies must coordinate closely, adhere to discipline, and boldly offer constructive views.

The upcoming first session of the 16th National Assembly will consolidate key State leadership positions and approve the action program for the entire term. Deputies must promptly commence their duties with a strong sense of responsibility, upholding the trust placed in them by voters.

"A bright future lies ahead. The entire nation must unite, transforming the joy of election day into practical action to build a more prosperous and happy Vietnam, thereby realizing the aspiration for a peaceful, independent, democratic, strong, prosperous, civilized, and happy Vietnam, steadily advancing towards socialism," the General Secretary concluded.

>>> Read General Secretary To Lam's full article

Vu Tuan