Opposition Asks ADB To Suspend Funding to Cambodia

Opposition leader Sam Rainsy has asked the Asian Development Bank to suspend funding to Cambodia, whose government he says was not formed legally following the July elections. In a letter to ADB President Takehiko Nakao, Sam Rainsy, president of the Cambodia National Rescue Party, said the country currently has a one-party government, with the opposition refusing to take part in National Assembly meetings following an election it says was lost through irregularities and fraud. “As a result of the above-mentioned constitutional coup and ongoing political deadlock, the Asian Development Bank should suspend any agreements with the current government led by Mr. Hun Sen,” Sam Rainsy wrote. “The ADB should also refrain from signing any new agreements with this government, which does not represent the Cambodian people and thus cannot legally make any commitment on behalf of Cambodia.” … Cheam Yiep, a lawmaker for the ruling Cambodian People’s Party, said funds received by the government help all of Cambodia, including its opposition. Cambodia is not a one-party state, he said, referring to the opposition lawmakers who have not attended Assembly sessions. “However, the CPP cannot aim a gun at the opposition to make them join parliament,” he said. The Asian Development Bank provides millions of dollars to Cambodia in aid and loans, for a railroad project, poverty reduction and other programs. … The Asian Development Bank provides millions of dollars to Cambodia in aid and loans, for a railroad project, poverty reduction and other programs. Sam Rainsy is at the beginning of a trip the US and European countries, urging them not to recognize the current government. However, some analysts say the opposition would do better to find a negotiated solution with the CPP within the country, without outside pressure.

 Sok Khemara
http://www.voacambodia.com/content/opposition-asks-adb-to-suspend-funding-to-cambodia/1766436.html