A delegation of the Centrist Asia-Pacific Democrats International (CAPDI) have shared the same ideas as other international election observers that the 5th Commune/Sangkat Commune Election was conducted in a peaceful and non-violent manner. 

“The overall election environment was characterised as calm, peaceful and non-violent. The delegation did not observe any complaints that might have adversely affected the process or the results of the 2022 election,” read a statement of CAPDI shared at a press conference in Phnom Penh this morning. 

The CAPDI delegation congratulated the people of Cambodia for their active participation in the election and wish Cambodia every success in strengthening its democracy and development. The success of the 2022 election is yet another significant step in promoting the Kingdom’s ongoing reforms to realise the people’s aspirations for peace, democracy and development.

“In this spirit, we call on the International Community to cooperate constructively with the Cambodian people and with the elected Royal Government of Cambodia to ensure the continuity of the observance of the rule of law, promotion of good governance, and the enhancement of economic and social development for the people’s welfare, considering the progress already achieved by the government and the people,” they stressed. 

“It is also our hope that in line with democratic principles, the opposition parties shall continue to exercise its role in the nation’s growth and development,” they added. 

On the election day, the statement pointed out, the CAPDI delegation visited polling stations shortly before they opened and watched NEC staff make preparations, in order to ensure the electoral process is substantially in line with the international commitments. “We noted the voter turnout rate was relatively good and also was the professionalism and integrity of NEC staff. To gain the most insights into the election process, the delegation carried out its observation activities in six polling stations in various areas in Phnom Penh and Muk Kampoul district,” the delegation said.

Cambodia yesterday organised the 5th-mandate Commune/Sangkat Council Election with the participation of 17 political parties, under the observation of 88,050 political agents, and 74,885 local observers and 110 international observers from various organisations. Besides, there were 775 local journalists and 39 foreign journalists registered to cover this local election.

Source: Agency Kampuchea Press