Phnom Penh (FN), Feb. 20 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that the drug problem is a global issue. While drugs pose a global challenge, there is no reason to be discouraged in combating it and preventing its spread within Cambodian society.
The premier spoke on Tuesday (Feb. 20) at the 2023 annual meeting of the National Authority for Combating Drugs (NACD) at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel.
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underlined that the drug issue is prevalent in every country, including those with strict laws that severely punish traffickers, and even in countries where execution is a penalty for drug-related offenses. Even the superpowers, which allocate millions of dollars annually, struggle with this problem.
Samdech Thipadei underscored, "We cannot afford to give Cambodia another 20 or 25 years filled with drugs."
Samdech Thipadei continued, "Everyone present here, whether from the Armed Forces, civil servants, or civil society organizations, have families and children. Our homes are surrounded by others, with constant movement in our communities. We want our country to be a safe place with social security. Security is of paramount importance. Due to the interconnected nature of drug trafficking, it has become more sophisticated and influential than ever before. It is sold in bulk and operates through interconnected international networks. We must acknowledge this reality and recognize that we have no choice but to fight for our future."
Please be informed that Prime Minister Hun Manet also issued directives to introduce stringent measures in the fight against illegal drugs within ministries, institutions, and sub-national administrations.
According to the regulations, the Royal Government has observed that the threats posed by drug crimes continue to escalate, both regionally and globally, including within Cambodia. The seventh-mandate Royal Government has reiterated its commitment to combating illegal drugs as a top political priority. On 11 January 2024, the Royal Government announced the initiation of the ninth anti-drug campaign.
To enhance the effectiveness of the anti-drug campaign, which is a crucial political priority, and to foster trust, efficiency, and good governance within state institutions at both the national and sub-national levels, the Royal Government deems it necessary to implement strict measures through the regulations include as follow:
1. All ministries, institutions, and sub-national administrations must increase regular inspections of civil servants, national police officers, soldiers, and contracted officers under their supervision for illegal drug use or related activities.
2. All ministries, institutions, and sub-national administrations shall take immediate action to dismiss, without exception, any civil servants, national police officers, soldiers, or contracted officials found to be involved in illegal drug use or related activities.
3. The application of disciplinary actions shall not exclude the implementation of criminal penalties in accordance with existing laws and regulations.
=FRESH NEWS
