Phnom Penh, Cambodia — In a significant move that has raised concerns among human rights advocates, Cambodian lawmakers have enacted legislation that grants the government the authority to revoke citizenship from individuals found guilty of collaborating with foreign entities.
The recently passed law empowers the government to strip citizenship from anyone convicted of conspiratorial actions against national interests or of jeopardizing the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security. This legislative decision was overwhelmingly approved by 120 members of the 125-seat National Assembly, which is largely controlled by the ruling Cambodian People’s Party.
The law stipulates that the revocation of citizenship is to be determined by a committee formed at the request of Interior Minister Sar Sokha. While the bill still requires the endorsement of the Senat and the approval of the monarch, such approvals are anticipated to be mere formalities, given the political landscape.
This legislative action takes place amidst an ongoing crackdown on dissenters, directed at opponents of the ruling party, which has been led for decades by former Prime Minister Hun Sen, whose son, Hun Manet, took office earlier this year. In a statement made in June, Hun Sen emphasized the need to address the actions of Cambodians perceived to be aligning with foreign governments.
Notable political figures, including Sam Rainsy and Mu Sochua, have fled the country to evade what has become a systematic repression of dissent. Both are recognized as cofounders of the now-banned Cambodia National Rescue Party, a key opposition group.
Before the parliamentary vote, a coalition of 50 human rights organizations issued a warning regarding the potential ramifications of the new law, describing it as likely to have a “drastically chilling effect” on the freedom of expression of Cambodian citizens. The coalition expressed concerns that the vague language of the legislation could lead to widespread abuse, targeting individuals based on their ethnicity, political beliefs, or activist activities.
Critics argue that the government already possesses extensive powers, and the recent legislation further challenges the rights of citizens by allowing arbitrary decisions regarding their nationality. Activists and civil society groups warn that the consequences of this law could severely limit political discourse and civic engagement in Cambodia.
As the political climate continues to tighten, observers and analysts are closely monitoring the implications of this law for both Cambodian citizens and the broader stability of the region’s democratic processes.
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