Under the provisions of the Law on Election of Deputies to the National Assembly and People’s Councils of Vietnam and the Law on Enforcement of Custody and Temporary Detention of Vietnam, detainees are entitled to exercise their voting rights and may also participate in referendums in accordance with the Law on Referendums. The regulation underscores Vietnam’s commitment to ensuring that citizens retain fundamental political rights even in special circumstances.

At the detention centre run by the police in Nghe An province, around 940 detainees are currently eligible to cast their ballots. As the number of detainees can change daily, officials regularly review and update voter lists while coordinating closely with local authorities to issue voter cards promptly and avoid duplication or omissions.

Alongside the administrative preparations, the facility has also carried out legal awareness activities for detainees through various forms of communication. During group sessions, prison officers explain citizens’ voting rights, provide guidance on how to mark ballots and emphasise the principle of secret voting to ensure that each vote is cast in accordance with legal regulations in a transparent and objective manner.

Thanks to these efforts, many detainees have gained a clearer understanding of the significance of the elections and their responsibility in choosing representatives who will reflect the will and aspirations of the people. Several have expressed reassurance that their legitimate rights continue to be protected under Vietnamese law.

Meanwhile, preparations have largely been completed for more than 400 detainees eligible to vote at the detention centre of the provincial police in Ha Tinh province. A separate election team has been established, while voter lists and information on candidates have been publicly posted to allow detainees time to review them before casting their ballots.

On polling day, in addition to the main ballot box, a mobile ballot box will be brought into the facility so that election staff can move between detention rooms, enabling detainees to exercise their civic rights more conveniently. After voting, voter cards will be stamped for confirmation. The entire process will be conducted in accordance with regulations while ensuring security and safety.

Organising voting for detainees not only ensures compliance with the law but also reflects Vietnam’s commitment to respecting and safeguarding citizens’ fundamental political rights. Even in special circumstances, voters are given the opportunity to take part in what is often described as the country’s “national festival of the people”.

Vietnamese voters nationwide will cast their ballots on March 15 to elect deputies to the 16th National Assembly and local People’s Council for the 2026-2031 term.

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