Bui Xuan Cuong has officially taken on the role of Secretary of Saigon Ward, a significant area in Ho Chi Minh City, following a decision announced on June 24 at the city’s Party Committee headquarters. Cuong succeeds Nguyen Tan Phat, who has been reassigned as the Director of the Department of Education and Training.

During the announcement, Nguyen Van Duc, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, emphasized the importance of Saigon Ward, describing it as a "key area of key areas" crucial for the city’s development. The city’s leadership carefully considered this appointment, aiming to leverage Cuong’s extensive experience and reputation to enhance the local governance.

Cuong expressed that this new position marks a significant milestone in his career, as it is his first time serving as Secretary of Saigon Ward, which is centrally located and holds a special status in Ho Chi Minh City. He noted that the ward is home to numerous central government agencies, financial institutions, and vital economic activities, which present both opportunities and responsibilities for local leadership.

Cuong is committed to working with local leaders to modernize and elevate Saigon Ward to meet its status as a central and exemplary ward in the city. Plans include effectively utilizing the riverside space, urban renovation, and enhancing the area's unique landscape and advantages to stimulate further development.

With a doctorate in construction, Cuong has held various significant positions, including Director of the Department of Transport and twice serving as Head of the Urban Railway Management Board in Ho Chi Minh City. He was elected as Deputy Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee in 2022, overseeing transportation, public investment, ODA projects, urban railway, architecture, and urban development.

Saigon Ward, set to be officially established on July 1, 2025, will be formed by merging the entirety of Ben Nghe Ward with parts of Da Kao and Nguyen Thai Binh Wards. It spans 3.04 square kilometers and has a population of nearly 42,000, making it the core area of Ho Chi Minh City. This ward is home to numerous historical and architectural landmarks, such as the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, the Central Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House, and serves as a hub for commerce, services, finance, and high-end tourism. Additionally, it is projected to generate the highest budget revenue in Ho Chi Minh City, estimated at over 10.4 trillion VND by 2026, with more than 5,300 enterprises and over 1,000 business households operating within its jurisdiction.