NGOs call for delay on Cambodia graft debate

Sok Sam Oeun (L), executive director of legal aid NGO Cambodia Defenders Project, shows to the media an envelope with recommendations for changes to an anti-corruption draft law in front of the Cambodian national assembly in Phnom Penh March 9, 2010. Rights groups in Cambodia on Tuesday deplored an anti-corruption law that parliament will debate this week, saying it would not stop graft and offered no protection to whistle-blowers who uncovered corruption. REUTERS/Chor Sokunthea

Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Australia Network News

Rights groups in Cambodia say an anti-corruption law that parliament will debate this week, won't stop graft the problem.

A coalition representing about 245 local non-governmental organisations told a news conference the debate on the anti-graft law should be delayed for a month so the public could be consulted.

The groups want the assets of state officials to be declared publicly and protection for people who report corruption.

The President of rights group Licadho, Pung Chhiv Kek, says if witnesses can't have protection, then no one is going to come forward and report problems.

A Cambodian government spokesman, rejected the criticism saying the anti-corruption law will make the country an equitable society.

The main opposition Sam Rainsy Party joined the civil society groups in asking for a delay to the parliamentary debate.