FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Expulsion of Opposition Parties from the Cambodian National Assembly
Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
June 8, 2013
The United States is deeply concerned by reports that the Permanent Committee of the Cambodian National Assembly, made up entirely of members of the ruling party, has expelled opposition lawmakers from the National Assembly. Such a decision starkly contradicts the spirit of a healthy democratic process.
We strongly support a political process that includes the full participation of all political parties on a level playing field. Stripping the salaries and parliamentary status of opposition party legislators deprives the Cambodian people of their voice and hurts the democratic process in Cambodia. Full participation of all elected representatives is essential to the democratic process.
We urge the National Assembly leadership to allow all elected members to fulfill their commitment to serve the Cambodian people.
