CNRP Requests Rainsy Explanation

The opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) has formally asked for explanations of the criminal charges against its president, Sam Rainsy, from the National Assembly (NA) and National Election Committee (NEC) as well as explanations about the stripping of Mr. Rainsy’s parliamentary immunity. Speaking at a press conference at CNRP headquarters yesterday, opposition senator Teav Vannol said the party had submitted two letters asking the presidents of the NA and NEC to explain the reasons Mr. Rainsy was stripped of his immunity and now faces years-old defamation charges.

An additional two letters were sent to the Ministry of Interior and the NEC about migrant workers, Mr. Vannol added. The charges against Mr. Rainsy, officially levied in defense of Foreign Minister Hor Namhong, were believed by many to be resolved before they forced the party president into exile late last year.

“In 2013, Rainsy returned to the country. Then the election took place and he was a reserved candidate but then officially became a lawmaker with unanimous votes. How could he be charged when he had parliamentary immunity?” Mr. Vannol asked. Leng Peng Long, the NA’s Secretary General, said he had received the CNRP’s request. Parliament’s Permanent Committee, constituted entirely of ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) members since mid-May when all 55 opposition MPs began an as-yet resolved boycott of the assembly, will hold a meeting to discuss the request, Mr. Peng Long added.

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