Fulfilling the Promise of Reform

Whenever I talk with Cambodians and other friends these days, the conversation seems to turn inevitably to a discussion of what can be done to overcome the violence of recent events and end the ongoing political impasse.  Based on readers’ recent questions and comments, many of you have the same thoughts on your mind.  One question really struck me, with the person asking, “Instead of political disagreement, I want our leaders to focus on the real needs of Cambodians.  Where are the reforms that everyone keeps talking about?”

 

I absolutely agree with the reader that concrete steps toward reform must start taking place now, not at some unspecified point in the future.  There is a Latin phrase –acta non verba – which means “actions, not words” and I think it perfectly describes what is currently needed in Cambodia.  A good, immediate starting point would be for the government to begin implementing the electoral and judicial reforms recommended by UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights Surya Subedi.  During his just concluded visit to Cambodia, Professor Subedi met with Prime Minister Hun Sen, who pledged to speed up both electoral and judicial reforms in Cambodia in conformity with the Special Rapporteur’s recommendations.  Still more encouraging, the Prime Minister announced that the government’s judicial reforms would be even more ambitious than the recommendations.  This is all very good news, and I urge the government to now put these words into action by moving expeditiously to fulfill its commitments as the Cambodian people, indeed all the world, will be judging the government’s deeds not its promises.

 

Another immediate action that needs to be taken is holding accountable those responsible for the fatal shootings on January 3 that killed as many as five protestors. The Royal Government has moved to establish special committees to investigate the violence during the labor protests on Veng Sreng Boulevard, which is a positive step given that the rule of law goes hand in hand with human rights.  If these committees are able to conduct an objective, transparent investigation – followed by an appropriate response– such action would greatly enhance the Royal Government’s credibility with the public that it truly does aim to maintain public security in ways consistent with its human rights responsibilities.

 

Finally, over the past week, the Royal Government has handled protests in Phnom Penh and opposition rallies in the provinces in a responsible and restrained manner.  Opposition leaders have affirmed their party’s commitment to peace and non-violence, and all Cambodians can agree on the need to prevent political hostilities from claiming more lives and causing more injuries.  Respecting the right to peaceful demonstrations is a cornerstone of a democratic system, and so I urge the Royal Government to take action to lift the ban on opposition demonstrations in Phnom Penh as part of a renewed commitment to finding a resolution for the ongoing political crisis.  

 

The easing of tensions over the past week has opened a new window of opportunity for moving the country forward.  Both political parties have publicly expressed a common interest in pursuing reforms that will strengthen Cambodia’s democratic development and put the country on a sustainable path to peace and prosperity. The two parties must engage in constructive dialogue, however, if they hope to find ways to implement their pledges to Cambodia’s citizens.  When confronting a daunting challenge, I find the best way to start is by tackling the problem one step at a time, and at the risk of sounding contradictory, the first action in this case actually is words – having the two parties return to the negotiating table to discuss their differences.

 

Tomorrow, Americans will celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.  The great civil rights leader inspired us by saying, “Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”  Dr. King’s dream of equality in the United States once seemed impossible, but it was an unshakable faith that guided our nation each step along the way towards becoming a better society.  I believe the Cambodian people possess an equally strong sense of hope and perseverance that will lead to the fulfillment of their dreams.  Reform will be that crucial first step.

 

Thank you for reading my column this week.  As I continue to receive your thoughtful questions and comments, I will do my best to respond and keep up our very fruitful conversation.  You may write to me at AskAmbToddPP@state.gov in English or Khmer and leave comments on my blog at http://blogs.usembassy.gov/todd.

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