(KPL) The 2nd Extraordinary Session of the 9th National Assembly on March 18 convened to review draft amendments to the Law on Local Administration, with Vice President of the National Assembly Khambay Damlath presiding over the meeting.

The proposed amendments were presented by Minister of Home Affairs Vilayvong Boutdakham and include eight parts, 21 chapters, and 81 articles, with 16 new articles and amendments to 62 existing articles.

Minister Vilayvong noted that since the law’s adoption in 2015, efforts have been made to distribute and implement it at all levels, from the central government to local provinces. However, challenges have emerged that necessitate revisions.

“Some aspects of local governance, particularly district-level management, have not been fully implemented. Additionally, three city-level administrative units established in 2018 have struggled to function effectively,” the minister explained.

He emphasized that revising the law is essential to align local governance with the country's evolving needs, ensuring effective administration and better public service delivery.

Strengthening Local Governance

The amendments aim to enhance state power efficiency, reinforcing the role of local administration in national development and regional integration. The revised law will provide a framework for:

Strengthening local government structures, particularly at the subdistrict level, to improve community services.

Clarifying the division of responsibilities between different levels of local government.

Enhancing the rule of law and governance in line with national policies.

Deepening the Party’s leadership at the grassroots level to foster closer ties between the government and the people.

Following its approval, the amended law is expected to support local governments in adapting to real-world challenges, promoting stronger governance, and laying a foundation for economic self-reliance while advancing towards the socialist development goals of the Lao PDR.

KPL