NGOs call for delay on Cambodia graft debate

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Cambodia's parliament will debate the anti-graft bill this week. [AFP]

Australia Network News

Rights groups in Cambodia say an anti-corruption law that parliament will debate this week, won't stop graft the problem.

A coalition representing about 245 local non-governmental organisations told a news conference the debate on the anti-graft law should be delayed for a month so the public could be consulted.

The groups want the assets of state officials to be declared publicly and protection for people who report corruption

The President of rights group Licadho, Pung Chhiv Kek, says if witnesses can't have protection, then no one is going to come forward and report problems.

A Cambodian government spokesman, rejected the criticism saying the anti-corruption law will make the country an equitable society.

The main opposition Sam Rainsy Party joined the civil society groups in asking for a delay to the parliamentary debate.