Cambodia’s Opposition Leader at LI

Leader of the Cambodian opposition and SRP (LI Full Member), Sam Rainsy MP, along with Tioulong Saumuara MP visited the LI Secretariat to discuss the role the international community can play in ensuring free, democratic elections in Cambodia. Mr. Sam emphasised that "it would be hypocrisy to talk about elections in 2013 if the leader of the opposition is not allowed to freely enter the country or to contest the election due to political persecution." He informed LI that the new merged opposition party "Cambodia National Rescue Party" has filed its request for registration. As a truly patriotic party it "fully supports Cambodia's pledge to get a seat at the UN Security Council, but only as a credible international partner, i.e. if it implements the recommendations for organising free elections". Sam Rainsy warned of the lack of response by the government, which could lead towards election boycott, sounding resolute: "I hope for dialogue. But no matter the outcome, I will return to Cambodia despite the threats to my freedom and life. I count on the support of liberals world-wide".