NEC reports calm campaigns in Senate race
THE National Election Committee (NEC) reported a smooth and secure campaign period so far for the upcoming 5th Senate election, with the 10-day window closing on February 23.
All four contenders – the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), FUNCINPEC, Khmer Will Party (KWP), and Nation Power Party (NPP) – have adhered to regulations and maintained a peaceful environment, according to the committee. They have held voter meetings at their headquarters and campaigned ethically, using loudspeakers as permitted, with no significant incidents reported.
“Overall, the election campaign conducted by the participating parties has proceeded perfectly, maintaining security, orderly conduct and mature behaviour,” it said.
NEC spokesman Hang Puthea reported no complaints during the Senate election campaign, indicating an uneventful process for all four participating parties. He said this is a positive sign for both the country’s political development and future.
“We have collaborated with local authorities and stakeholders to uphold security during this campaign period. All parties have adhered to the guidelines and legal procedures established by the NEC,” he said.
Yang Kim Eng, president of the People’s Centre for Development and Peace,
observed parallels between the Senate election campaign period and the general election last year, noting a lack of public engagement compared to the latter.
“With the outcome seemingly predetermined, this election may lack the public engagement observed in others,” he said.
The NEC stated that the seamless campaign can be seen as a testament to the growing sophistication of national politics. However, it also noted that political maturity cannot be solely gauged by the Senate election.
Kin Phea, director of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said that a well-run, non-violent election with no protests and acceptance of results by all parties demonstrates the NEC’s ability to organise a successful election.
“I agree that political parties have displayed greater civility and professionalism, which in turn fosters a citizenry engaged in responsible political support. This directly facilitates the NEC’s efficient conduct of elections, enabling its modernisation efforts at all levels, from national to senatorial polls,” he said.
The 5th Senate election will take place on Sunday, February 25, from 7am to 3pm. Voting will be held at 33 polling stations across eight regions nationwide, with a total of 11,747 voters, including incumbent lawmakers and all commune councils, slated to cast their ballots.