A high-ranking military official on January 20 called on members of the Royal Government Attorney Group (RGAG) and Samdech Techo Sen's Voluntary Lawyers Group to remain engaged in government efforts to advance the rule of law, reform the legal and judiciary systems, combat corruption, strengthen social justice, protect civil rights, and support the sustainability of national development.
Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) deputy commander-in-chief Lieutenant General Hun Manet – the eldest son of Prime Minister Hun Sen and a prime ministerial candidate for the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) – made the call during a 2022 work review meeting for the two organisations, according to the Ministry of Information.
Lt Gen Manet encouraged the members of the two groups to push on ahead, adhering to legal, ethical and professional standards and internal rules as well as maintaining integrity and honesty to promote the best interests of justice, dignity, honour and other core values of the legal profession.
He also asked for their hand in building a society of justice, equity and harmony for all, particularly one in which legal aid is provided free-of-charge to the poor or those who may lack access to legal services.
The Samdech Techo Sen's Voluntary Lawyers Group in particular offers free legal consultation, representation, defence, and other services to vulnerable women and girls who live in poverty and lack legal resources.
Manet lauded the achievements of the groups and their members, which he said “highlight the important role of lawyers as independent legal professionals in the preservation of peace, stability and development in Cambodia, based on a democratic society premised on the rule of law.
“They’ve also won the trust of the people in social justice and the guarantee of harmony through conflict resolution,” he stated.
