Minister of Interior Sar Sokha is planning to meet with all 1,652 commune clerks across the country soon to understand their strengths, highlight possible areas for improvement and listen to any requests or proposals they might have.

Interior ministry spokesperson Touch Sokhak told The Post that through these meetings, the minister aims to gather firsthand information from the clerks regarding their concerns and suggestions, which could help improve the quality of public services they provide.

“Currently, each commune or sangkat has only one clerk, and their work involves directly engaging with citizens. Sometimes, this leads to dissatisfaction among the public due to their lack of understanding of the scope of the clerks’ duties. Occasionally, on holidays or weekends, people complain that the clerks are not at their offices, which is something we need to address,” he explained.

Pa Chanroeun, president of the Cambodian Institute for Democracy, expressed support for the idea, saying it would be beneficial for the ministry leadership to meet directly with the clerks.

He believed that this initiative will foster dialogue between national authorities and local officials. It will also provide a platform for commune clerks to raise concerns, challenges and requests for additional support to enhance their effectiveness and productivity.

“The interior ministry can also use these meetings as an opportunity to reinforce the commitment of all commune clerks to fulfil their roles, duties and responsibilities with dedication. This is especially important in serving the public and raising awareness about avoiding corruption, whether in commune budgets, public property sales or collusion of any kind within their jurisdictions,” he said.

Chanroeun expressed hope that the meetings will strengthen the principles of good governance at the commune level.