Seizing the Moment for Cambodias Democratic

William E. Todd
The national elections last Sunday were a profound and pivotal moment in
Cambodias development as a democratic nation. During the campaign period and on
Election Day, the Cambodian people demonstrated their determination to play a
leading role in making their nations democracy stronger and more meaningful. Now,
after the excitement of the elections, they remain engaged and passionate about the
future of their country. This passion is reflected in the many questions I have
received regarding U.S. reaction to Cambodias electoral process and the outcome of
the elections.
First Id like to commend the Cambodian people for their active and peaceful
participation in these historic elections. On voting day, the political parties set a
responsible tone by calling for a calm and secure environment, and party supporters
on the whole complied with these appeals. As the process to certify the election
results continues, I urge all parties and their supporters to continue to act in an orderly
and peaceful manner.
Cambodians should be proud that the national elections showed the world how
seriously they take their right to freely choose their elected officials. Unfortunately,
there have been reports of voting irregularities that have led some to question the
results. Therefore, the United States supports a full and transparent investigation of
any reported irregularities. Also, to restore voter confidence in the electoral process
moving forward, it is crucial to start making immediate reforms to correct
deficiencies. A good starting point would be for the Royal Government to implement
the important 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. All democracies must continually
evolve and improve, and Cambodias is no different. While there are always
growing pains when making any improvements, Cambodia deserves nothing less
than the freest and fairest elections possible.
Cambodians that I meet, regardless of party affiliation, tell me they want their
government to be responsive to the people. They also want their elected officials to
work together cooperatively and constructively to bring greater peace and prosperity
to the country. Earlier this week, Prime Minister Hun Sen spoke about his desire for
the parties to work together, along with civil society, to resolve the current uncertainty
about the outcome of the elections. I commend him for his statement and his
willingness to work across party divisions to find solutions. I believe cooperation and
compromise is the right approach to set Cambodia on the right course. Once the
outcome of the elections is settled peacefully, with all parties playing a constructive
role, Cambodia will be in a better position than ever before to continue its path toward
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democracy, security, and prosperity.

As we move forward from these important elections, I want to assure the Cambodian
people that the United States stands with them in their desire for a strengthened
democratic process. These elections offer a unique and historic opportunity to bring
about significant positive political reforms. My hope is that Cambodias newly
elected leaders will seize this moment in history to strengthen the rule of law and
human rights, make laws in a fair and transparent manner, and govern in the best
interests of the Cambodian people. As the new parliament works to fulfill these
responsibilities, I look forward to working with the Royal Government, along with the
Cambodian people and civil society, to build upon the elections for a prosperous and
lasting democracy.

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