Dispense the same type of justice you demand

The Phnom Penh Post

Written by Roger Nault
Thursday, 20 November 2008

Dear Editor,

The Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) has properly conducted itself in a quietly confident manner as it implores Thailand, and indeed the international community, to ensure that the rule of international law is upheld - that is to reconfirm that Preah Vihear and other temples remain the sovereign property of Cambodia. While negotiations seem to be moving in a positive direction and there is a rare opportunity to appoint a new National Police Chief, the RGC might reflect on the benefits of upholding the rule of law within its own sovereign borders.

If the rule of law is the standard that the RGC (rightfully) implores of its neighbors, then certainly it must live to the same standard: "You can't suck and blow at the same time".

There is a rare opportunity for a seismic shift in law and order in Cambodia. Thousands of victims of land grabbing and other crimes implore the RGC to end the culture of impunity and dispense only the same level of justice that it demands internationally, within Cambodia's sovereign borders.

Roger Nault
Phnom Penh