PHNOM PENH: In a decisive move against drug use within the Cambodian government, Prime Minister Hun Manet has directed relevant ministries to create a blacklist of dismissed officials. This measure aims to prevent individuals fired for drug-related offenses from seeking re-employment across government ministries.

The directive was announced during the closing ceremony of the National Authority for Combating Drugs on February 20, 2024. The Prime Minister emphasized that the measure is part of a broader strategy to uphold the principles of national and social security, individual rights, and community interests concerning officials implicated in drug-related activities.

Prime Minister Hun Manet articulated a firm stance on the issue, stating, "Not only is it about removing them from their current positions, but ensuring they are not able to transition from one governmental framework to another." This approach underscores the government's commitment to maintaining a clean and responsible administration, free of drug-related corruption.

The move is expected to bolster the legal and regulatory framework, guiding the Ministry of Justice in its efforts to safeguard the integrity of the civil service and ensure that officials involved in drug offenses face appropriate consequences without the chance of re-entering the public sector.