GENEVA (25 May 2023) – UN experts* today urged Cambodian authorities to ensure an inclusive, genuine, and peaceful electoral process, in full respect of human rights, including rights to freedom of assembly, association and expression for all political actors, civil society and voters.
“We are alarmed by the restrictions imposed on the right of political parties to participate in elections,” the experts said, calling for the upcoming general elections in July 2023 to be held in accordance with the minimum standards for free and fair elections. “This is essential to ensure the freely expressed will of the Cambodian people.”
They noted that, just last week, the National Election Committee of Cambodia (NEC) rejected the registration of the Candlelight Party and of the Khmer United Great Nation Party to run in the 23 July national election, citing non-compliance with electoral laws, regulations and NEC notifications.