[U.S Ambassador] Advances for Democracy

William E. Todd

It is great to be back in Phnom Penh after several weeks abroad visiting family and friends, many of whom were closely following developments in Cambodia and the important relationship between our two countries. 

 

First, I would like to extend my condolences to the families of the journalist and Red Cross official who were killed in a tragic car accident on Wednesday.  I also extend my best wishes for a speedy recovery to those who were injured, including Rasmei Kampuchea’s Sroy Nika.  We will sorely miss him while he recovers from the accident.  Part of the media’s critical task is to keep the public informed on important developments in the country.  The victims of this terrible accident were traveling to report on the massive flooding that Cambodia has experienced this year.  My thoughts and prayersgo out to them, as well as to those people who have been severely impacted by this flooding.

 

In my recent columns, we have discussed the need for continued economic and political progress in Cambodia, with a particular focus on the importance of reforms, peaceful change, and meeting the needs of Cambodia’s youth.  Progress in these areas would mean increased development, greater prosperity, and a stronger democracy for Cambodia.  While I was away, I continued to receive questions for this column.  The most frequent question I received was regarding the current political impasse over the national elections.  More specifically, one reader asked, “What do you think about the latest protests and what is next for Cambodia?” 

 

During this unprecedented time in Cambodia’s democracy, the Cambodian people have embraced their role as active participants in the political process.  Nonviolent and respectful protests, like the one we saw this past week in Phnom Penh, are an important avenue for voicing opinions and encouraging debate.  I would like to  recognize and commend the Royal Government of Cambodia for providing the political space that allowed people to exercise their freedoms of assembly and expression in an open and peaceful manner during this latest protest.  In particular, the police and gendarmerie not only exercised professionalism and restraint, but they also provided security for those who participated in the rally and the marches.  The admirable manner in which both the protestors and the Royal Government’s security forces conducted themselves demonstrates how Cambodia’s democracy continues to advance and mature.  In my opinion, peaceful protests, supported by proper government security, demonstrate positive movement in the right direction and should become a normal and accepted part of Cambodia’s democratic process.

 

For the next step, I believe that both major political parties need to return to the negotiating table to chart a way forward that is in the best interests of all Cambodians.  Both the Cambodian People’s Party and the Cambodia National Rescue Party deserve credit for publicly announcing their intentions for reform.  Now is the time for both parties to come together in a spirit of national unity and follow through on their September 16 statement supporting electoral reform and agreeing to resolve national problems through dialogue.  I believe reform efforts should include meaningful and respectful participation from both political parties that will ensure national unity and the support of the Cambodian people.  Peaceful and constructive dialogue can and will overcome the current impasse.  Once again, I urge the leaders of Cambodia’s two main political parties to work together in good faith toward a productive outcome that supports the aspirations of the Cambodian people.  A resolution achieved through dialogue would set the stage for progress in all aspects of Cambodia’s development. 

 

As Cambodians continue the conversation about progress, not everyone will agree on how to get there, but all will agree on the need to move forward.  The evolution of Cambodia’s democratic process reminds me of a quote from President John F. Kennedy:  “Without debate…no Administration and no country can succeed – and no republic can survive.”  I applaud all Cambodians who have exercised their democratic rights in a constructive and non-violent manner – whether by voting, by petitioning their government, by rallying, or simply by listening, learning, and respecting the rights of others to voice their opinions.  I believe that all issues can be resolved by working together in a respectful manner. 

 

Thank you very much for your questions and comments, which allow us to explore issues that are timely and relevant for Cambodia.  Thank you for maintaining this important dialogue, and please continue to send me your questions by emailing me atAskAMBToddPP@state.gov.

William E. Todd is U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of Cambodia