NEC report ‘calm, orderly’ Senate election campaign
THE National Election Committee (NEC) reported a calm and orderly campaign period for the 5th Senate election, scheduled for February 25, with all four participating parties adhering to established rules and ethical codes.
NEC deputy secretary-general Mok Dara confirmed on February 12 that the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), FUNCINPEC, Khmer Will Party (KWP) and Nation Power Party (NPP) have conducted their activities peacefully and in line with guidelines set by capital and provincial election commissions.
“Political parties contesting the upcoming Senate election are demonstrating maturity in their campaigning, adhering to established principles, laws and ethical codes. The NEC commends the parties for running respectful campaigns that prioritise national interests alongside fair competition,” he said.
Kimsour Phirith, a Senate candidate for the KWP, noted the peaceful campaigning for the election. While opting for smaller-scale gatherings instead of large processions, he said his party has engaged with constituents, including members of the Candlelight Party (CP), which was disqualified from the 2023 general election.
“The KWP is eschewing large-scale campaign marches this election, deeming them disruptive and wasteful. Instead, we are prioritising direct outreach to voters who already recognise our platform,” he said.
Sam Kuntheamy, executive director of the NGO Neutral and Impartial Committee for Free and Fair Elections in Cambodia (NICFEC), could not be reached for comment.
According to an NEC press release issued on February 11, FUNCINPEC marched in Kandal province with about 100 participants on February 11.
The CPP has held meetings with voters, distributed leaflets and broadcasted the party’s policies at party offices in provinces, towns, districts and communes.
The KWP has been campaigning through meetings, voter visits and loudspeaker broadcasts, while the NPP has not yet conducted any campaign activities.
“Overall, the election campaign has proceeded smoothly, with security, safety, good order and no notable incidents or violence,” the NEC said.
The campaign period will run for 14 days, from February 10-23.