U.S. CONGRATULATES PEOPLE OF BHUTAN ON THEIR ELECTIONS

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 
Elections in Bhutan
Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
July 15, 2013

The United States congratulates the people of Bhutan on their successful July 13 general election, and welcomes Bhutan’s continued democratic progress following its first national elections in 2008. The United States looks forward to working with the new Bhutanese Prime Minister and National Assembly on our shared goals and aspirations for both our peoples.

U.S. CONCERNED OVER EXPULSION OF OPPOSITION PARTIES FROM CAMBODIAN ASSEMBLY

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.