US Expresses "Grave Concern" About Actions of Cambodian Government

The United States on Thursday ended its support for next year’s elections in Cambodia after it dissolved a key opposition party.

Washington, MINA – The US expresses “grave concern” about the Cambodian government’s dissolution of the country’s main opposition party, the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), based on meritless and politicized allegations that it participated in a conspiracy to overthrow the government.

“It is becoming increasingly evident to the world that the Cambodian government’s restrictions on civil society, suppression of the press and banning of more than 100 opposition leaders from political activities have significantly set back Cambodia’s democratic development and placed its economic growth and international standing at risk,” KUNA reported, quoting statement by the White House on Thursday.”

The US “will take concrete steps to respond to the Cambodian government’s deeply regrettable actions,” it said.

“As a first step, we will terminate support for the Cambodian National Election Committee and its administration of the upcoming 2018 national election.

On current course next year’s election will not be legitimate, free or fair.” The Cambodian government still has time to reverse course, the White House said.

“We call on the Royal Government of Cambodia to undo its recent actions against the CNRP, release imprisoned CNRP leader Kem Sokha, and allow opposition parties, civil society and the media to maintain their legitimate activities,” the statement said. (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)