Hun Sen, defence minister criticise UN rapporteur over rights report

 By News Desk in Phnom Penh/Rasmei Kampuchea Daily

 Asia News Network 

Phnom Penh (Rasmei Kampuchea Daily/ANN) - Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and Defence Minister Tea Banh criticised United Nations Special Rapporteur Surya Subedi Thursday for a human rights report last month that was critical of the government.

Speaking at a graduation ceremony, Hun Sen questioned opposition parties for considering the report as the official position of the United Nations.

He said the special rapporteur would be better off helping his own country, noting that Nepal had sought assistance from Cambodia.

Regarding Subedi's allegations that the military supports the ruling Cambodian People's Party, Tea Banh said: "We will be happy to accept then if there is clear evidence."

Speaking to reporters after a conference, he said the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces "respects electoral and political party laws, especially since it is a neutral body which carries out its duties to maintain security."