Former Vietnamese Health Minister Seeks Payment Extension in Court Appeal

The appellate panel of Vietnam's Supreme People's Court postponed its verdict in the case against former Health Minister Nguyen Thi Kim Tien after legal representatives requested more time to prepare further financial settlements. The hearing had been scheduled for September 30 afternoon but was delayed following requests from both defence lawyers and the defendants themselves.

The case centers on Tien's involvement in a major hospital project where significant losses occurred during her tenure as health minister. The original proceedings resulted in a six-year prison sentence, prompting the appeal proceedings currently underway.

By seeking additional time to arrange payments, the defence team aims to demonstrate remorse and willingness to compensate for damages, a move that may influence the appellate panel's final decision. The exact amount of proposed payments and the timeline for the rescheduled hearing have not been disclosed.

The case has drawn considerable attention given Tien's former high-ranking position in Vietnam's health ministry and the substantial financial implications of the hospital project losses. The appellate court's final ruling is expected to carry significant implications for accountability standards in government procurement and project management.