Vietnam Ministry of Home Affairs reviews Decree 178 benefit errors

The Vietnamese Ministry of Home Affairs is conducting a comprehensive review of personnel benefits distributed under Decree 178 (amended by Decree 67) following findings of improper payments by the State Audit Office. Officials noted that the errors identified by auditors affect approximately 0.3% of total cases, primarily involving issues in the implementation process rather than flaws in the policy itself.

Regarding the recovery of funds, the Ministry stated that individuals who received benefits incorrectly may be required to return the money. For those who have already retired or left their positions, the decision on whether they must return to work will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Deputy Minister Vu Chien Thang emphasized that the administrative restructuring aimed at streamlining the state apparatus is a massive, unprecedented task. While errors occurred due to the rapid implementation and complexities of the transition, the Ministry has issued directives to ministries and local authorities to rectify these issues while ensuring the continued smooth operation of the government machinery.