Demonstration Law causes heated discussion in NA

At a National Assembly discussion held on November 17, many called for the removal of the Draft Law on Demonstrations.

The draft law, proposed by the Prime Minister to be added to the 13th NA law-making process, was roundly criticised by some deputies who recommended that it be removed.

Deputy Hoang Huu Phuoc from Ho Chi Minh City said that demonstrations are simply gatherings of people who are against the Government and its institutions. He added that most citizens are against it because it could cause disturbances. 

As an example, he cited the Occupy Wall Street movement in the US, which also expanded to other countries, including the UK.

He added that the demonstrations in Ho Chi Minh City against the Chinese also caused traffic jams, which affected business. Such crowds, he said, might inhibit the ability of emergency vehicles.

Deputy Nguyen Thanh Tung, from Binh Dinh Province, said democratic freedom does not equate to demonstrations.

Deputy Dang Ngoc Nghia, from Thua Thien-Hue Province, suggested that people could make their opinions heard through online exchanges concerning issues such as the East Sea dispute, so that state agencies could explain their policies. His main concern was that demonstrations would lead to opposition to the state.

Law on Demonstrations necessary to ensure human rights

Defending the law, Deputy Duong Trung Quoc, from Dong Nai Province, said that in the context of globalisation, it is important for people to have a chance to give their views. 

He cited Decree 31 issued by Late President Ho Chi Minh in 1945, which mentions freedom of speech and gathering for all Vietnamese citizens, adding that the late President's decree applies to demonstrations.

He said, "The Law on Demonstrations would be a safeguard for human rights. There are no grounds to remove the proposed law of the Prime Minister.”

He admitted, however, that it is a sensitive issue and should be dealt with carefully.