Khieu Kanharith: Ranariddh’s letter is laughable

Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Everyday.com.kh
Translated from Khmer by Socheata

Khieu Kanharith, government spokesman, considers the letter sent by Prince Ranariddh to Sam Rainsy asking for an amendment to the new Article 119 of the Constitution, as laughable. Khieu Kanharith told the Kampuchea Thmei newspaper that, normally, the political party which wins the election has the right to organize the structure and set up alliance with any political parties it chooses to form a government. He added that the CPP has set up its mind since 1993, not to discriminate against any party if that party really wants to help build and develop the country. In fact, currently, the ruling CPP party is very indulgent towards a number of political parties which did not receive any vote and allow them to work within the government. And for the Funcinpec party which is now in an alliance with the CPP, at some (ministries), it does not have any seat based on its (negotiated) quota, but still the CPP allows Funcinpec people to work with them normally. Therefore, the request by Prince Ranariddh to Sam Rainsy asking for an amendment to this article is laughable.
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KI-Media Note: Article 119- New (Previously Article 100)
At the recommendation of the Chairman and with the agreement of both the Vice-Chairmen of the National Assembly, the King shall designate a dignitary from among the representatives of the winning party to form the Royal Government. This designated representative along with other members chosen from the political parties or represented in the National Assembly, then present themselves to the National Assembly to ask for a vote of confidence.

After the National Assembly has given its vote of confidence, the King shall issue a Royal Decree (Kret) appointing the entire Council of Ministers.

Before taking office, the Council of Ministers shall take an oath as stipulated in Annex 6.