Phnom Penh: On the evening of 22 July 2023, His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, hosted a Welcome Dinner for International Observers to the Election of Members of the National Assembly for the 7th Legislature in 2023.
Cambodia is all set for its upcoming general elections, as the Royal Government of Cambodia warmly welcomes international observers who have gathered to witness this crucial event. The observers were honored at a dinner hosted on behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia, just a day before they embark on their mission to observe the democratic process in action.
Cambodians from various backgrounds eagerly anticipate exercising their constitutional rights to choose their future leaders, believing that their chosen leaders will guide the nation towards peace, stability, and prosperity. The presence of international dignitaries, including Prime Ministers, Speakers, and former Presidents, serves as a testament to their solidarity with Cambodia's democracy and its people. This international representation also sends a strong message to both local and global audiences, emphasizing Cambodia's commitment to conducting the electoral process in a free, fair, inclusive, and transparent manner, without any political intimidation or violence.
During a meeting with Prime Minister Hun Sen, the observers gained insights into Cambodia's unique political situation, which stands as a successful example of post-conflict national reunification. Cambodia has accomplished three significant aspects:
Transition from Civil War to Peace: Over the last three decades, Cambodia has successfully transitioned from a state of civil war to a peaceful multi-party liberal democratic system, without experiencing any internal strife.
Maturity of Democracy: Cambodia's democracy has reached a certain level of maturity, where the resolution of political differences occurs through ballots, promoting a stable political environment.
Economic Growth and Social Progress: Since achieving full peace in 1998, Cambodia has witnessed rapid economic growth, dramatic reduction in poverty levels, and the development of soft and hard infrastructure. The nation has also embraced legal and judiciary reforms, improved human rights, and introduced numerous social benefits, laying the foundation for long-term peace and stability, with credit attributed to the Win-Win policy of Prime Minister Hun Sen.
Cambodia's stature in the regional and international arena has grown significantly, and the country has actively contributed to United Nations peacekeeping missions by deploying blue-helmet personnel to aid peace efforts in nine countries.
For the election, the National Election Committee (NEC) has registered nearly 90,000 local observers, accompanied by over 300 international observers from 65 different nationalities representing 32 international organizations, foreign governments, and diaspora communities. The electoral process will also be monitored by dozens of diplomats, special guests of the NEC, and close to 60,000 political parties' agents, ensuring an inclusive and diverse observation process.
The Royal Government of Cambodia emphasizes the importance of collective involvement in Cambodia's democratic journey, with equal opportunities for citizens and political parties to engage in political contests within the confines of the law. Legal compliance is crucial to ensuring the impartiality of the process, with consequences for those who violate electoral laws.
The Royal Government of Cambodia expresses deep gratitude to the NEC and its polling personnel for their arduous work, ensuring professionalism, independence, impartiality, and commitment to a fair and transparent electoral process.
As the international observers embark on their mission, Cambodia looks forward to showcasing an inclusive, participatory, and peaceful electoral process, exemplifying the country's growing maturity as a pluralistic and democratic society. The hope is that their observations will contribute to the great cause of peace and prosperity for the people of the Kingdom of Cambodia.
