Phnom Penh (FN), May 17 – National Election Committee (NEC)’s spokesman Dim Sovannarom clarified on Thursday that the NEC did not file complaint to Ministry of Interior (MoI), however, requested the ministry to take legal action against any individuals who urged Cambodians to boycott the upcoming election.

"The NEC requested the MoI to take legal action in accordance with Article 41 of the Constitution for calling on citizens to boycott the election through the distributions of leaflets that could concern public order and national security," Dim Sovannarom said.

Article 41 of the Constitution stipulates that Khmer citizens have freedom of expressing opinions, press freedom, freedom of publication and assembly. No one would violate the opportunity that can affect the dignity of others, social traditions, public order and social security.

NEC Secretary-General Tep Nytha said that the NEC sent a request letter to the MoI on Thursday speaking at press conference at the NEC headquarter to update political party and candidate lists as well as number of national and international observers.

NEC’s request was made after Sam Rainsy, leader of Cambodia National Rescue Movement, urged citizens not to vote, not to participate in the election, nor recognize the results of the elections in July without the presence of former opposition party.

Rainsy posted a message on Facebook on May 1: “THE REAL MEANING OF A FAKE ELECTION ORGANISED BY A DICTATORIAL REGIME ON 29 JULY 2018 has only two real choices: (1) - ABSTENTION means that you support the CNRP in your hearts and want this party to lead the country towards positive change; (2) - GOING TO VOTE (for whatever party) means that you support the CPP and want this party to continue to lead the country in the same way as it does now”.
=FRESH NEWS