Recent audits by the State Audit Office of Vietnam have revealed numerous violations in the disbursement of benefits under Decree 178. In light of these findings, the Ministry of Home Affairs has instructed various ministries and localities to review all cases of individuals who have retired and received benefits according to Decree 178/2024 and Decree 67/2025.

Dr. Bui Sy Loi, former Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly's Committee on Social Affairs, emphasized that while the policies established by the government are well-intentioned and aimed at streamlining personnel, errors in implementation are inevitable. He pointed out that violations must be categorized and assessed accurately to ensure appropriate responses.

Dr. Loi stated that those who have incorrectly calculated benefits or misidentified eligible recipients should have their cases reviewed and corrected. In instances where individuals have exploited the policy for personal gain, the government must take decisive action to reclaim improperly disbursed funds. However, he cautioned against a blanket approach to handling these violations, advocating for a nuanced understanding of each case's context.

Echoing Dr. Loi's sentiments, Dr. Nguyen Tien Dinh, former Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, called for accountability among those responsible for the errors, particularly those who prepared and approved the lists of retirees. He noted that the responsibility lies not only with the officials directly involved but also with the leadership of the agencies that oversaw the process.

Dr. Loi further highlighted the importance of distinguishing between unintentional mistakes and deliberate misconduct. He argued that officials who act in good faith but encounter unforeseen circumstances should be treated differently from those who intentionally defraud the state. This distinction is crucial to maintaining fairness and integrity in the handling of these cases.

With over 146,000 individuals having retired under Decree 178, the Ministry of Home Affairs faces a significant challenge in addressing potential errors. The ongoing review process aims to ensure that all cases are handled appropriately, balancing accountability with an understanding of the broader historical context in which these mistakes occurred.