Manet’s anti-drug drive garners unified support
MINISTRIES, institutions, subnational administrations and citizens, both domestically and abroad, have expressed full support for Prime Minister Hun Manet’s initiatives to combat illegal drugs, following the government’s recognition of escalating regional and global drug-related crimes.
In response to the issue, various governmental bodies, organisations, associations, unions and civil society groups have issued numerous petitions and statements of support, aiming to contribute to the prevention and elimination of drug misuse in Cambodia, thereby ensuring social security and development.
The petitions share a common theme: strong backing for the government’s directive to eradicate illegal substance use among civil servants, members of the armed forces and contracted officials, particularly focused on preventing drug use within state institutions.
“The directive is crucial in enhancing the image, honour and integrity of state institutions and the armed forces. These bodies must set a positive example in serving the public and aid in the country’s development,” said a statement from the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training.
The petition highlighted the detrimental impact of drugs, not only on individuals and families but also on the dignity and efficiency of ministries and institutions, noting that this particularly affects security, public order and social harmony.
A petition from the Kampong Cham Provincial Administration expressed a commitment to rigorously implement the directive.
It said this would apply to civil servants, National Police officers, soldiers and contracted officials across all departments and municipal-district and commune administrations. The measures include terminating positions and removing individuals from the framework without exception.
Am Sam Ath, operations director at rights group LICADHO, voiced support, highlighting the ongoing seriousness of the drug problem both nationally and globally. He emphasised the government’s priority in preventing and suppressing drug-related issues and crimes.
He noted that previously, the Ministry of Interior had enforced policies within the National Police to delist members involved in drugs, and the Ministry of National Defence had taken similar actions against some military forces.
“Please take steps against all ministries and institutions with any forces or civil servants involved in drug use. We are eager to see the effectiveness of the authorities in implementing these measures, which will depend on their commitment to do so,” he said.
Suon Srey Nich, a Cambodian worker in Thailand, said the initiative would enhance the effectiveness of eradicating illegal drugs, noting that it would also promote trust, good governance and work efficiency.
The prime minister issued the order on February 20.
The directive calls on all ministries, institutions and sub-national administrations to terminate positions and delist without exception any civil servants, National Police officers, soldiers or contracted officials found using or involved in illegal drugs.
In conjunction with introducing the measure, Manet also made several recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of the drug fight. He urged all relevant stakeholders to view the problem as a collective issue requiring prevention, elimination and concerted efforts to combat.