A Historic
Opportunity for Meaningful Reform
Published:
18-Aug-13 08:51AM | By William E. Todd
The
National Election Committee’s recent announcement of preliminary election
results and the ongoing review of the electoral process continue to dominate
the news as well as the questions and comments I have received from
readers. The U.S. Embassy is closely following developments with the
elections and has consistently called for a full and transparent investigation
of reported irregularities that is credible in the eyes of the Cambodian
electorate. Just as importantly, we continue to urge both parties to
engage in positive and constructive dialogue to find a peaceful way forward
that is in the best interests of the Cambodian people.
From
my discussions with representatives of both political parties, civil society
leaders, and everyday citizens, it seems clear that there is a broad consensus
among Cambodians that the elections were a resounding call for meaningful
reforms, particularly in the electoral process, economic expansion, and
combating corruption. One curious reader asked, “How can Cambodia make
this change possible?” While some people may view the current
disagreements between the parties as a challenge, I see the situation as a
unique opportunity to make meaningful reforms that can accelerate Cambodia’s
development and benefit all Cambodians.
As
the contentious post-election review shows, significant changes to the
electoral process are needed to give all the parties and the Cambodian people
greater faith in future election results. A committee formed to
investigate the election irregularities can help address the weaknesses and
vulnerabilities in the process so that Cambodia’s next election is free of
these problems. In addition, implementing the recommendations of the U.N.
Special Rapporteur on Human Rights, such as correcting the voter registry and
making the activities of the National Election Committee fully non-partisan and
transparent, would add meaningful value to the spirit of the democratic
process.
Prime
Minister Hun Sen’s recent announcement to increase the wages of many civil
servants, particularly those at the lower end of the salary range, is a
positive first step in a meaningful reform agenda. In fact, increased
wages for government employees was an idea strongly advocated across party
lines. For all workers to focus on their responsibilities, they must earn
a wage commensurate with the service they provide. The announced change
in government pay is proof that change in response to the voice of the people
is possible. For stronger economic reform, I also encourage the
government to focus on improving the quality of education so that more
Cambodian citizens can obtain higher skilled jobs with higher pay.
Making
meaningful progress to combat corruption would eliminate a significant hurdle
to Cambodia’s economic expansion and good governance. The increase in the
salaries of civil servants is one method that can reduce the temptation of
corruption to secure extra income. Also, both parties can strengthen
their anti-corruption efforts by providing the necessary support to the
Anti-Corruption Unit to ensure Cambodia realizes its full potential.
When
the new National Assembly convenes, members of both parties must be prepared to
work together in a constructive manner and continue to listen to the will of
the Cambodian people. No one can expect the two parties to agree fully on
the approaches to electoral reform, improving the economy, and reducing
corruption, but the free exchange of ideas and vigorous debate will result in
the best policies put into practice. There is a real cause for optimism,
and I look forward to supporting the new Royal Government and the Cambodian
people in their efforts to create a more prosperous, democratic, and secure
nation.
(Some parts of been cut off)
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