Vietnam's 2021 election reaches remote islands and soldiers at sea
Vietnam's parliamentary elections on 23 May 2021 saw special efforts to include remote voters. Fifty-two polling stations were set up for fishermen, soldiers, and residents on distant islands. These included locations in the Spratly and Paracel archipelagos, as well as coastal regions in the Gulf of Thailand.
Preparations began well before election day. Officials reviewed voter lists and guided fishermen on how to register while at sea. Some polling stations, particularly on frontline islands and border posts, opened early on Saturday to accommodate voters.
At 6:30 am, the Bạch Long Vĩ Special Zone—known for its strategic role in national defence and fisheries—became the first locality in Hải Phòng City to start voting. The zone's chairman, Đào Minh Đông, led the opening ceremony. Two polling stations were organised there, each serving different voter groups. By 10 am, turnout across the country exceeded 93%. However, rough seas and strong winds prevented some army units from reaching their assigned stations. To address this, contingency plans were made to deliver mobile ballot boxes to vessels once the weather improved. Voters arrived in a festive mood, with national flags and banners decorating polling stations. In Lâm Đồng Province, border guard stations reported a 100% turnout during early voting.
The election saw high participation despite logistical challenges. Special arrangements ensured that even those on remote islands or at sea could cast their votes. Officials confirmed that all eligible voters, including those delayed by weather, would have the opportunity to take part.
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