CPP can’t stomach criticisms: CPP MP Cheam Yeap in denial

CPP comrade Cheam Yeap (Photo: RFA)
15 Sept 2010
Everyday.com.kh
Translated from Khmer by Soch

Yesterday, CPP MP Cheam Yeap declared while NOT HAVING SEEN YET the report critical of the government on freedom of expression issued by the civil society that this report lacks balance and it opposes the government. Cheam Yeap told The Phnom Penh Post: “I think that the NGOs use their rights and freedom of expression with this report, but the CPP cannot accept the wrong criticisms leveled in this report. This is not fair for the government.” He also rejected the criticism claiming that Cambodia is moving toward a single-party state because the CPP is already planning to win 120 seats out of the total of 123 seats at the National Assembly during the upcoming election. He added that if there is only party, then it would be “contrary to Cambodia’s Constitution.” He confirmed that “democracy and freedom of expression must respect the law which pays close attention to democracy, just like a person taking good care of his own eyes. We respect the UN bill of rights stipulation on democracy and human rights.” (sic!)