Cambodian cabinet approves 3 draft laws to strengthen judicial system

The Council of Ministers of Cambodia on Friday passed three draft laws, designed to strengthen the country's longtime-criticized judicial system, according to a government media statement.

The green light was given during a weekly cabinet meeting, which was chaired by Prime Minister Hun Sen.

The three draft laws included one on the organization of the judiciary, one on the organization and function of the Supreme Council of Magistracy, and a Statutes of Judges and Prosecutors.

"The laws aim to guarantee the independence of the judiciary, maintain discipline of judges, and to assure the good functioning of Cambodian courts," the statement said.

The laws, drafted by the Ministry of Justice with French legal experts' aid, are based on experiences of countries with advanced rule of law, it said.

"The compilation of the three laws is an important beginning of legal and judicial reforms, which are an integral part of the government's rectangular strategy," it said. "The laws will be a fundamental base for the government to achieve its vision in strengthening good governance and the rule of law."

According to the Constitution, the draft laws need to be approved by the National Assembly and finally reviewed by the Senate and signed by King Norodom Sihamoni before being promulgated.

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