Cambodia’s opposition, Candlelight Party (CLP), rejoins the Asian liberal family

The CLP was previously a member of CALD, but has since evolved its name and membership into the Sam Rainsy Party and then into the National Rescue Party of Cambodia. CLP is currently the main opposition party in Cambodia, winning 4 commune chiefs and 2,198 council members based on official results of the 2022 Commune Elections held last 5 June 2022.

The CLP, headed by Teav Vannol, strives to oppose and eliminate all social violence and all kinds of corruption to ensure peace in the nation. It exists to “protect and promote human rights as stated by the United Nations and implement liberal democracy.” CLP’s operation in Cambodia has been challenging due to the current repressive state of the government, which includes threats to dissolve the opposition, weaponization of the law against opposition leaders and civil society activists, abuse and control of government institutions, and the systematic violation of fundamental human rights.

Mardi Seng, CLP Treasurer and the party’s representative to the CALD Executive Committee said, “Seed of democracy has been planted and it has taken roots in more than 1,500 local communities. This rebirth or re-establishment of democracy will grow strong and will bear fruits, if we liberals support and assist in watering it, caring for it, and tendering to it.”

Francis Abaya, CALD Secretary General, expressed gratitude to CLP for joining CALD and for upholding the liberal and democratic principles amidst the mounting challenges in Cambodia.  “We believe that the people of Cambodia will see through the darkness and allow the CLP to guide them and rise above tyranny and inequality. CALD has always been ready to support our newest full member, the Candlelight Party, to achieve “integrity, truth, and justice” in Cambodia.