Peaceful Formation of Cambodian Coalition Government

Cambodia is embarking on the critical task of forming a new government, which requires two-thirds majority support in the National Assembly. The formation of a coalition government is an arduous process. We have seen reports that the Prime Minister Hun Sen dismissed members of the FUNCINPEC Party from their government positions because of their party activities. We are concerned that this action could be a form of pressure on the FUNCINPEC Party.

This development must not lead to further steps that would obstruct normal political activity. The United States encourages Prime Minister Hun Sen to respect the right and responsibility of all parliamentary parties to participate in the formation of a coalition government that is in conformance with the Cambodian constitution. We urge that the process unfold peacefully, without violence or intimidation.

This week, leaders of two of Cambodia's major parties, who have formed the Alliance of Democrats, visited Washington to share their ideas for the creation of a coalition government that is dedicated to peace and prosperity for the people of Cambodia. Assistant Secretary for East Asian Affairs James A. Kelly and Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Lorne W. Craner were pleased to welcome Sam Rainsy, President of the Sam Rainsy Party, and Prince Norodom Sirivudh, Secretary General of the FUNCINPEC Party, at meetings at the State Department. During these meetings, the two leaders discussed their concerns about the development of the electoral process in Cambodia.