The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation this evening made public a press statement highlighting factual and first-hand observations of the Sunday National Election.
The following is the full statement:
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia notes the multitude of comments surrounding Cambodia’s general election which took place on 23 July 2023. The Ministry would like to highlight factual and first-hand observations of this historic event:
1. High Voter Turnout and a Vibrant Democracy: Over 8.2 million voters have exercised their constitutional right to choose the political parties and their future leaders, whom they believe can best lead the nation on the path of peace, stability and socio-economic development. The voter turnout of 84.58%, which surpasses the previous four national polls since 2003, is a clear demonstration of the vibrancy of the Kingdom’s democracy, reflecting the trust of its citizens in the electoral process.
2. Upholding of Democratic Values: This highest voter turnout is a definite rejection of calls for electoral boycotts, and smear campaigns orchestrated by extremist opposition factions seeking regime change through undemocratic tactics. Cambodia’s sovereign right to self-determination shall be respected by all external actors.
3. Unbiased Observers: This voting process was objectively witnessed by 422 international observers, representing 65 nationalities from 61 institutions, encompassing international organizations, foreign governments, diplomatic circles, and Cambodian diaspora communities. The electoral proceeding was closely monitored by nearly 60,000 political parties’ agents and 90,000 independent national observers, collectively attesting to the fairness and transparency of the process. The Ministry truly appreciates their solidarity and their commitment to the greater cause of democracy of Cambodia.
4. Adherence to Applicable Laws: Statements from these monitoring teams are a clear indication that the general election was conducted in a free, fair, transparent, peaceful, and inclusive manner and in strict adherence to the applicable laws. The independence and professionalism of officials and institutions administering the poll were also noted.
5. Inclusive Political Pluralism: The voting process exemplified a genuine political pluralism, offering Cambodian citizens and their respective political parties with an equal and fair opportunity to engage in political contests within the confines of the law. Rights and responsibilities are inseparable, and the strict observance of the electoral law is essential to ensure the impartiality of the electoral process. Those who fail to fully comply with the law must bear the consequences.
In conclusion, the 2023 general election is a true reflection of Cambodia’s democratic maturity with its exceptional voter participation and its election’s legitimacy as attested by the diversity of the national and international observer teams. As an independent and sovereign nation, Cambodia remains steadfast in its unwavering commitment to political pluralism and peaceful democracy, taking into account its unique national characteristics, tragic recent history and culture.”
Source: Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP)
