PRELIMINARY REPORT FOR CAMBODIA 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

PRELIMINARY MONITORING REPORT ON ELECTORAL PROCESS FOR 29 JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS THE KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA

02 July 2018 (date of release for member governments and parliaments and other stakeholders) Report issued for general public on 17 July 2018

Page 1

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. INTRODUCTION.................................................................................... 4

II. GENERAL ASSESSMENT....................................................................6 III. ELECTION CLIMATE ANALYSES ..................................................11 A. FACT FINDING....................................................................................11 B. LEGAL FRAMEWORK........................................................................12 C. ELECTION SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION.................... 14 D. PROCEDURES FOR CANDIDATE NOMINATION AND REGISTRY................................................................................................. 15 E. POLITICAL BACKGROUND...............................................................16 F. ELECTORAL APPLICATIONS............................................................17 G. CAMPAIGN AND CAMPAIGN FINANCE. ANTI MONEY LAUNDRY PROVISIONS .............................................18 H. CIVIC SOCIETY....................................................................................19 IV FINAL CONCLUSIONS ON PRE- ELECTION OBSERVATION......22 a. Pre-election period b. Intervention of H.M. Norodom Sihamoni c. Conclusions on pre-election period

Page 2

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

PRE-ELECTION MONITORING REPORT ON THE KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTION

ELECTORAL ASSESSMENT

Page 3

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

I. INTRODUCTION

According to an official invitation from the National Election Committee of The Kingdom of Cambodia to observe the 29 July 2018 parliamentary election, the European Council on International Relations, Parliamentary Assembly for Sustainable Development Goals, Europe and Asia Conference, World Electoral Monitors Organization, all signatory of the Act for Transparent and Peaceful Elections hereinafter presented as the INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM decided to evaluate the political, judicial, legislative

Page 4

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS and general framework of the National Assembly election slated for 29 July 20181.

The aim of the evaluation process was to assess the pre-election environment and the preparations for the parliamentary election.

The evaluation process comprised in legislative text analyses, assessment of general political situation in the country and the conformity with general accepted democratic practices and regulation and with bona fide principles.

Taken into account were also: public opinions, statements and discussions expressed by officials from different Cambodian institutions and the election and civil administration, as well as official spokespersons from political parties, media outlets, civil society personalities, and the international community2.

1

https://centruldiplomatic.wordpress.com/2018/06/30/election-monitoring-website-dedicated-to-cambodias-

parliamentary-elections-july-2018-unveiled/ 2

https://cambodian-elections.yolasite.com/

Page 5

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

II. GENERAL ASSESSMENT OF LAW PROVISIONS

The International Electoral Monitoring Team conducted a Pre-Election Assessment Analysis for the Kingdom of Cambodia in order to assess the country compliance with the framework of human rights and internationally respected electoral conditions in the country prior to the holding of the July 29, 2018 VIst National Assembly Elections.

According with the law prescriptions, the National Assembly vote will start on 29 July 2018, giving the voters the chance to elect the National Assembly for a full constitutional term.

The law encapsulates also the necessary democratic prescriptions for an open and fair electoral process3.

The July 29,2018, election will be the sixth consecutive national election called on legal bases, a supplementary proof of a democratic and viable electoral system.

3

https://cambodian-elections.yolasite.com/National-Election-Committee.php

Page 6

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS The principles that are governing the parliamentary elections are governed by the Constitution, the Constitutional Law on Elections (Election Law), and regulations of the National Election Committee (NEC)4.

The assessment process considered that Cambodia is a viable and fully committed party to all major international and regional instruments related to the holding of democratic elections and had continuously and full abiding by his international democratic regulations.

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM had find that: the law and regulations governing the electoral process in Cambodia are completely corresponding to international laws and regulation insuring a perfect electoral process5.

The authorities of Cambodia underlined in all public statements their nation commitment to conduct elections in compliance with the principles of openness, transparency and fairness6.

The election will be administered by a complex and modern system of commissions, composed of a National Election Committee and including a 4

http://iricer.webs.com/apps/blog/show/45708432-cambodia-makes-incredible-strides-to-guarantee-free-

elections-in-2018 5

https://centruldiplomatic.wordpress.com/2018/06/02/cambodias-national-elections-committee-ensures-

free-and-fair-2018-poll/ 6

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKXgsi4_gmk

Page 7

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS number of Territorial Election Commissions and the City Election Commissions, District Election Commissions, and Local Election Commissions (LECs).

The National Election Committee composition and activity is fully independent and in perfect correspondence with international laws and regulations insuring the independence of electoral and monitoring process7.

The international community from government and INGO`s and CSO`s from Asia and Europe have expressed their support for the July 2018 Elections through financial assistance and deployment of observers.

Other international actors such as the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) and the Centrist Asia Pacific Democrats International (CAPDI)and a host of electoral monitoring institutions from China, Myanmar and other ASEAN member countries will observe the elections and support the democratic process in the country.

We have to appreciate the Japanese Government continuing financial support to the NEC, and that South Korean Government continues to offer trainings to the NEC on voter education.

The current members of the NEC are: H.E. Mr. Sik Bun Hok, the Chairman, H.E. Mr. Nuth Sokhom, the Vice-Chairman, and members: H.E Mr. Mean 7

https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6l9ufd

Page 8

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS Satik , H.E Mr. Dim Sovannarom , H.E Mr. Duch Sorn , H.E Mr. Hing Thirith , H.E Mr. Em Sophath, H.E Mr. Hel Sarath and H.E Mr. Hang Puthea.

The current composition of the NEC is a perfect illustration of the non-biased and inclusive character of the organization.

NEC was appreciated for its significant progress in organizing 2017 Communal and Sangkat Council Elections and 2018 Senate Elections, and all these successes offered the necessary guarantees that this year's general elections would be also free and fair.

One of the hallmarks of electoral integrity is a non-partisan, neutral election management body.

The NEC fully meets the requirements for an independent and impartial Electoral Management Body.

Independent media stakeholders have expressed their support for the NECNational Electoral Committee decision to create and open, fair and transparent environment for media involved in election process and appreciated the improving mass media landscape in the Kingdom after the shutdown of the fake news mill of Cambodia Daily and the restructuring of Phnom Penh Post had given hope that the media will stop acting of foreign agendas and to support violence and a campaign of disinformation in the country.

Page 9

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS All international actors have also expressed their satisfaction on the composition and management of the National Election Committee (NEC).

The management body is widely perceived as free and independent and able to provide a competing and free environment for electoral processus .

The Election Law guarantees the right to conduct an unimpeded campaign for or against any candidate.

In the democratic landscape of Cambodia, the INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM noted the existence of a powerful independent media, with an impressive number of mass media entities operating in the country.

Also a full independent televisions network is offering a perfect dialogue and information source.

The Cambodian Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and prohibits censorship.

Keeping in mind that no elections can be considered as free and democratic without the presence of international observers the INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM decided to support Cambodian electoral process and democratic credential by monitoring and observing all stages of the 2018, 29 July, Parliamentary election in Cambodia.

Page 10

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

III. ELECTION CLIMATE ANALYSES

A. FACT FINDING Cambodia is a fully flagged democratic kingdom, respecting the equilibrium of powers and balanced distribution of constitutional powers8.

The National Assembly is acting in full respect of the democratic system and the country has a long tradition of political process in a democratic manner and with all the guarantees for an inclusive and democratic process.

The institutional system is offering a perfect balanced voice to parliamentary and representations system9.

The 29 July 2018, Parliamentary election where convened in a perfect transparent and inclusive manner at the request of the responsible and democratic institution in the country: National Election Committee.

The democratic initiative for a parliamentary election was supported by the Cambodian Parliament and, on 25 February, the Cambodian National Assembly announced the election would be held on 29 July 2018.

8

https://centruldiplomatic.wordpress.com/2018/06/17/the-full-list-of-the-20-parties-taking-part-in-

cambodias-general-election-july-2018/ 9

http://eucir.webs.com/apps/blog/show/45751730-dim-sovannarom-national-election-committee-cambodia-

is-a-multi-party-democracy-

Page 11

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS As we have mentioned previously the next election will be the sixth consecutive national election in the kingdom recent democratic history.

On 27 February, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cambodia stressed the nation’s commitment to conduct a free and fair election in line with the principles of openness, transparency and fairness.

The INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM considers that the electoral process is fundamental, in law provisions and spirit and in technical consideration perfectly administered, offering a perfect climate and an open and inclusive and in full fairness political discourse resulted in a perfect competitive electoral environment.

B. LEGAL FRAMEWORK

Regarding the previous respect to democratic commitments, the Kingdom of Cambodia has fully respected his international obligations regarding construction of a free electoral consultation.

We must note that: INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM has made an in-depth analysis of the electoral law and constitutional framework of the Kingdom of Cambodia during 2018 Senate elections.

Page 12

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS In the focus of this analysis where: the mass media law, the election law, the political laws and the Constitutional Law of Cambodian and had operated a surveillance of the measure taken by the National Election Committee in order to insure a free and open election atmosphere.

The conclusion of the INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM was that: the necessary steps in order to insure an honest and balanced electoral consultation respecting democratic standards were taken by Government of Cambodia.

The conclusions of the committee findings can be summon up as an endorsement of the law and constitutional provisions of Cambodian electoral system.

In the 29 July 2018 the same principles and laws are applying as in 2018 Senate elections case.

The primary legal framework for parliamentary elections includes the Constitution, the Constitutional Law on Elections (Election Law), and regulations of the National Election Committee (NEC).

Other relevant laws include the Law on the National Assembly, the Law on Political Parties, the Civil Procedures Code, the Criminal Code, the

Page 13

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS Administrative Offences Code, the Law on Peaceful Assemblies, and various local regulations related to public assemblies.

Cambodia is a party to major international and regional instruments related to the holding of democratic elections.

C. ELECTION SUPERVISIONS AND ADMINISTRATION

The election will be administered by a four-layer system of election commissions.

The election administration comprises the NEC, Territorial Election Commissions and the District Election Commissions (DECs), and Local Election Commissions (LECs) .

The Kingdom of Cambodia had acquiesce to the fallowing instrumental accords for up-holding democratic values: the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, 1979 Convention for Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, 1965 International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, 2003 Convention against Corruption, etc.

Page 14

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS Membership and submission to all the previously noted agreements and treaty are creating a perfect election environment in accordance with international laws.

D. PROCEDURES FOR CANDIDATE NOMINATION AND REGISTRY

The Constitution and electoral law are offering the climate for an inclusive and representative participation in the electoral race: the National Assembly candidate may be nominated through self-nomination or by a public association, including a political party.

The necessary prescriptions for barring from standing for office of persons related to crimes, or found guilty of corruption-related crimes or administrative offences have being taken.

In Cambodia there are currently 38 political parties registered with the Ministry of Interior. These parties, in order to contest the elections will have to register with the NEC as well.

As of May 23, 2018, there are 20 political parties who were successful in their registration with the NEC, ensuring the inclusion of their party on the elections list.

Page 15

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS The 20 registered parties for the upcoming parliamentary election include Cambodian People`s Party- CPP, Cambodian Youth Party, Cambodian Nationality Party, Khmer National United Party, FUNCINPEC Party, Khmer United Party, Grassroots Democracy Party, New Light Party, Beehive Social Democratic Party, League for Democracy Party, Khmer Anti-Poverty Party, Dharmacracy Party, Kingdoman Democratic Party, Our Motherland Party, Khmer Rise Party, Khmer Economic Development Party, Khmer Will Party, Khmer Kingdoman Party, Reaksmey Khemra Party, and Cambodia Indigenous People Democracy Party10.

The existing parties were able to organize themselves, most of them on a nationwide coverage, offering the multi-party cadre of a functional democracy.

E. POLITICAL BACKGROUND

Throughout the recent democratic Cambodian experience, the governing party, the Cambodian People`s Party (CPP) has based its legitimacy on democratic credential, free and fair elections, popular mandate and has grown to be the country main political force for progress based on his achievements like: liberating the country, ending the Khmer Rouge rule, bringing lasting peace and stability, and outstanding economic development to a war-torn nation.

10

http://www.akp.gov.kh/archives/132864

Page 16

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS Under C.P.P. rule Cambodians had enjoyed steady economic growth, social, educational and health system continuous improvements and have greater access to information.

Urban migration and the proliferation of internet access and social media networks such as Facebook have fostered awareness of the political issues , for example Prime Minister Hun Sen is one of the most followed world leaders on social networks.

The Prime Minister Hun Sen’s leadership has also strengthen the country’s democracy, enacted a system of rule of law and respect towards social norms while pushing for development and modernization.

Cambodian People`s Party popularity has withstand all electoral test in recent years.

F. ELECTORAL APPLICATIONS.

The time for submission of applications for participation in the parliamentary election in Cambodian ended and the electoral campaign started on July 9th 2018.

Conclusion: Under the full scrutiny of the democratic process in Cambodia, INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM considers that the period of registrations of candidature and the provisions of the law have being full respected and all the necessary procedural steps

Page 17

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS have being address insuring a perfect democratic character to the first phase of the election procedures.

Recommendation: The Election Monitoring Committee of INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM considers that a high number of signatures on the candidate’s signature list will be a beneficial addition offering a better selection of serious candidates.

G. CAMPAIGN AND CAMPAIGN FINANCE. ANTI MONEY LAUNDRY PROVISIONS

On May 23, the NEC had announced that 20 political parties had been accredited for this year's elections and, out of 25 constituencies, 9 parties are contesting all 25 constituencies.

The election campaign starts on July 7th , the day after the end of candidate registration, and lasts until 27 July , when the silence period starts.

The Election Law guarantees citizens and public associations the right to conduct an unimpeded campaign for or against any candidate.

Page 18

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS Local authorities are mandated to provide space for the placement of campaign posters on an equal basis and candidates may also post materials on TV, radio and printed media.

Conclusions: The INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM stated that insuring transparency and strict supervision policies are all decisions destined to discourage money laundry, political corruption and in offering a fare and equal based financial support for all candidates, a fundamental base of democratic elections.

The Election Law is the main legal source addressing candidate rights to campaign in the media, providing equal access to airtime and print space.

H. CIVIC SOCIETY.

The role of civic society in elections often takes the form of support for the institutional processes of democratic elections as well as the more substantive development of a democratic electorate.

Freedom of association and freedom of expression are very basic principles in a democratic society.

Indeed, the Cambodian constitution enacted in 1993 and amended in 1999 created a democratic system that showed respect to the norms of universal human rights.

Page 19

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

With respect to the forthcoming elections, many civil society organizations and voters have expressed full trust of the ongoing election preparations.

From the time of its first democratic elections in 1993 to our day, Cambodia has gradually become home to one of the most open and vibrant media and civil society environments in Southeast Asia.

The atmosphere of the 2018 pre-election period is tensed on the account of incredible pressures in favour of an outlawed party, with appeals to boycott and attempts to block electors to express their will via the ballot boxes.

This atmosphere of threats against the legal government, the National Electoral Committee and the main political parties is counterbalanced by the national enthusiasm and vibrancy of civil society and political parties dedicated activity and the determination of the authorities to carve out the 2018 elections, as the most democratic election in the country.

Months prior to the elections, the International Electoral Monitoring Team saw unlawful activities destined to create a sense of disenfranchisement among stakeholders and voters and attacks against various political parties (especially Cambodian People`s Party-CPP) and against government.

Page 20

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS The Kingdom legal courts had concluded that: these activities where part of a programmed coup d’Êtat by the now-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP).

After the dissolution of the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) the situation in the country has experienced a rapid improvement in terms of dialogue, optimism and trust in the political process.

With the absence of the threats and violence from the political arena a line of rapidly developing opposition party had flourished demonstrating the Kingdom political vitality and democratic prowess.

A line-up of civil society organizations had also sprung up supporting the country democratic actions and created a high degree of freedom and competitiveness in the elections process.

Page 21

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS IV. FINAL CONCLUSIONS ON PRE-ELECTION OBSERVATION

One of the most important aspects in organizing internationally recognized and valid electoral process is the presence of international and internally accepted monitors.

According to National Election Committee a number of over 65.000 internal and international registered observers will be surveying the poll and will also insure a country wide supervision of the electoral process11.

The Cambodian Election Law provides for international and citizen observers, as well as authorized representatives of registered candidates.

There is an accreditation procedure and observers are required to present a letter from their nominating organization and their identification documents to the election commission where they will observe the process12.

We consider that the electoral system is offering the checks and balances necessary to insure a perfect democratic consultation13.

11

http://www.akp.gov.kh/archives/132808

12

http://eucir.webs.com/apps/blog/show/45794828-european-election-observer-mission-to-take-part-in-

cambodian-national-elections-2018-monitoring 13

http://eucir.webs.com/apps/blog/show/45713452-international-observers-are-prepared-for-2018-

cambodia-s-national-election

Page 22

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS ■■■

The evaluation panel has taken under consideration opinions and statements from members of recognized and lawfully established human rights organizations, political parties, media persons, academics, diplomats, intergovernmental organizations etc.

This evaluation panel report is also based on an extended analysis of relevant political and legal literature reviews, interviews, press articles and expert interviews.

a. PRE-ELECTION PERIOD

The INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM consider that: the pre-election period was marked by full transparency, honesty and a calm electoral climate conducive to an all inclusive electoral climate.

b. INTERVENTION OF HIS MAJESTY PREAH BAT SAMDECH PREAH BOROMNEATH NORODOM SIHAMONI- KING OF CAMBODIA Despite the international community unanimous voice in praising the elections environment on the Kingdom of Cambodia as conducive to free and impartial

Page 23

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS elections some interested parties desirous in seeding havoc and conflict, continued to raise questions and to try to falsely present the realities of the Kingdom14.

In front of a media slur and outrageous misinformation campaign, destined to taint Cambodia`s people and authorities determination to host free, equal opportunity and transparent elections, His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni has the final say15, closing any honest debate on the subject: The Kingdom will enjoy free and fair elections and the people of Cambodia will have the full opportunity to express their views and decision for the country direction and leadership.

The royal message writes that: “On this occasion, I would like to solemnly call for all eligible voters to cast their ballots in order to elect national leaders for development and glorious progress in all fields16�.

14

http://eucir.webs.com/apps/blog/show/45794858-international-democratic-community-offers-plaudits-to-

h-m-king-norodom-sihamoni-for-defending-democratic-and-free-elections-in-cambodia 15

http://iricer.webs.com/apps/blog/show/45751675-his-majesty-preah-bat-samdech-preah-boromneath-

norodom-sihamoni-king-of-cambodia-july-2018-election-will-be-free 16

https://centruldiplomatic.wordpress.com/2018/06/09/h-m-king-norodom-sihamoni-weights-in-cambodia-is-

having-free-and-fair-elections/

Page 24

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS We consider that in the parliamentary election (29 July 2018) pre-election campaign Cambodian has fulfilled all his legal obligation on holding open, free, and fair and equal opportunity driven elections17.

The conclusion of the INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM is that: the necessary steps in order to insure an honest and balanced electoral consultation respecting democratic standards were fully taken by The Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

As a result on 3th July 2018 the INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM18 decided to deploy an election mission to follow the Election Day process countrywide, and to supervise the Election Day activities, including voting, counting, and tabulation of results.

We must also underline that: election commissions at all levels handled technical aspects of the election in a professional manner in the pre-election and election period.

Their sessions were openly and transparently monitored by observers and the media.

17

https://medium.com/world-and-tourism/cambodia-s-july-29-elections-promises-to-be-the-most-

democratic-and-open-i-country-s-history-1a535b4a7bc3 18

https://medium.com/revista-de-politica-externa/international-community-launching-website-for-

monitoring-cambodian-general-elections-2018-48003718d1e8

Page 25

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

c. CONCLUSIONS ON ELECTIONS AND POLITICAL CONTEXT:

The political environment in Cambodia is characterized by the presence of strong political parties with national scale activities, with genuine pluralism and a vibrant political discourse.

NGOs operate in a permissive environment, and after 2017 reform bill that is providing supplementary supervision for NGO`S, offering opportunities for personal and institutional development and improving the sphere of activity for all NGO`s bodies, in such a manner that they can fulfil their role in providing quality services for Cambodian citizens.

Cambodian is enjoying a system that is open and full of liberty and the reform on NGO`s field has allowed Cambodian to obtain high quality services from the area of civil society.

From what the INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM gathered there are many reasons to hold the opinion that the coming elections in Cambodia will be “free and fair” as the stakeholders believe and the INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM can cite a few opinions: 1. The fundamental civil and political rights in the country are observed 2. Independent media is supported and in free activity across the nation.

Page 26

INTERNATIONAL ELECTION MONITORING TEAM CAMBODIA JULY 2018 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

This mission report concludes by saying that the upcoming elections 2018 have all the legal, constitutional framework and general atmosphere as conducive to transparent, free, fair and democratic valid polls.

Page 27