UN 'meddling' triggers row with Cambodia

Comrade Hor 5 Hong

Mon, 22 Mar 2010
AlalamNews

The Cambodian government has accused the United Nations of interference in the country and threatens to declare the UN envoy persona non grata.

As Cambodian parliament debated an anti-corruption law that was criticized by the opposition and rights groups earlier this month, UN agencies urged "a transparent and participatory" process.

The move angered the government in Phnom Penh.

Foreign Minister Hor Namhong, in a letter to UN resident coordinator, warned him against "a flagrant and unacceptable interference in the internal affairs of Cambodia".

Phnom Penh had already accused the UN of "acting as spokesperson of the opposition parties."

Cambodia passed the anti-graft law in parliament on March 11, more than 15 years after legislation was first proposed, but only days after the draft was shared publicly.

Cambodia's foreign ministry had already accused the UN of "acting as if it were the spokesperson of the opposition parties" with the statement.

UN officials have so far refused to comment on government allegations.