Be Wary of Junkies

February 26,2005

Be Wary of Junkies
By Prak Hap-FLUS

For those who had lived under post colonial Kingdom, Khmer Republic, Authoritarian-Totalitarian or the equivalent regimes would bear the imagination. Most Khmers are historically sentimental and philosophically idealistic especially in politic.In educated sense politic deems sincere cognizance and duly conscience to preserve humanity and one dignity.Thus politic should be treated as an endowed right to do good for the fellowmen. Agreeably it sounds good but why people still shun it? True, but not all.

After 2003 election was over, Kambu-Ja profusively faced self-destructive political infights. Noticeably, the shifting allegiance among CPP began to play out. Cautiously Mr. Hun Sen allied himself with most PRK or DK people in power to build his own enclave.He is street smart with overwhelming killer instincts to keenly surround himself with corruptive emigres, former DK turned millionaires, royalties,and alike for future endeavours. However there is something more than unsual about the other notorious pair, Prince R.Ridh and Mr. Sam Rainsy who committed to oust Hun Sen for good. But nothing turned out their way by far.They had become the love of their life in one minute then arch enemy in the next hour. This is beyond love-hate relation. Back then people recognized they had been at each other throat since FUNCIPEC was declared as a royal inheritance by Mr.Sihanouk when he was still a Prince soon to be a reinstated great king above all kings on the planet included Burger King. Both are erratically disturbed and emotional.

Because of that many followers were confused and jumped parties in hope for big rewards. Some said never again with permanent withdrawals and others turned habitual junkies who were repulsively synonimous of the aquatic hyacynths in the four crossing rivers in front of the Royal palaces. Shamelessly,they would float up or down along the strength of rivers currence at the seasonal advancement.

Plainly no one likes junkies in politic surely because they are hereditary and beyond addiction and no one exactly knows what. Junkies’ deteriorated morales and bloaded ego made people not to care about common interest and good in politic.Therefore the incorrect general perception, Khmer Politic actually meant junkies is unappetizing and a thing to avoid.

Up to this second, the junkies in form of all political fellouts such as the bruised, the wounded, the broken hearts, the cheated on, the unwanted , or the vindictive personas and alikes are disgracefully badgering and loathing one another over their own failures. Commonly their views and critics based on individuality and personas, therefore, their priciple was not nearly moral as one would have thought.

Regrettably speaking, because of too trusting many of us consequently ended up losing family members and living afar from the birthland. The hope to be with loved ones were vanishing forever. Thus morally I am urged to forewarn our fellows of the generic junkies who especially used family lineage or ranks to advance personal endeavour at people expenses. They would skillfully stroke people ego with such lines “your duty to do good for your people and it is important.” Or equivalently “I don’t like politic hence politicians.I am not doing this for my own sake (sure it said) but for the pity (greedy ) of Cambodians (mine). Does it sound familiar? Oh yes, I heard it all in the 70’s , 80’s, 90’s and now the millenium intel chip internet age. Sincerely, friends be aware of the politico cons’ marketing sound bites. Unquestionnably you are already a people who tries to do good for family survival despite of not given advantage of head start as opposed to many of junkies. Provingly, you already did good for people and let no one tell you otherwise.

With no academic or politico worldly correct guidance, some of us fled and walked land mine fields or booby traps to safety on our own. That ‘s way more than the armchair academic measured auditorium political talks. Remember do not take sweet ladened toxic too seriously. You have paid your dues before them a long time ago. Live on and embellish what kept you well and alive. But yet keep your guard up all the time because no matter what or where the hereditary junkies find way and want more out of people. Be wary.

SUBMITTED BY: Hap Prak Email: prakhap....@hotmail.com Mon, 28 Feb 2005

Should Sam Rainsy and Chea Poch Conciliate with Norodom Ranaridh?

By Samoeun Chhim

If I am Sam Rainsy, I would have said that it is too late. It's so ashame to placate after the world heard it and pissed about February 3, 2005. It was the dark day for the democracy in Cambodia. It was only about two members of parliament who expressed their opinion concerning the corruption in Cambodia by another politician. It was only a personal dispute. The strip of immunity of parliament member of opposition should have never occured.

Now, The Radio Free Asia reported today that the member of CPP said that the despute can be conciliated if Sam Rainsy to apologize to the prince and to admit that the allegation was not true. In addition, the CPP's member wanted Sam Rainsy to say that it was only a "joke".

To me, it is an abuse of power from CPP's member. The suggestion wasn't a conciliation but rather a mockery on the Sam Rainsy side; and this is remind me of myself when I was once very young and got into a fight. I beat another boy up and I grabbed his hair and made him bark like a dog, and I said if he barked I wouldn't hit him anymore. Suddenly, he barked because he was unable to resist my power, and I laughed.

If Sam Rainsy agrees to these ridiculous demand, it is not a conciliation. It is a lost on Sam Rainsy expenses. Conciliation means everyone win, and everyone has to forget everything. In this case it means that Sam Rainsy has to give up his allegation and N. Ranaridh withdraw the law-suit. Period!!

However, the suggestion put Norodom Ranaridh's advatages over Sam Rainsy and Chea Poch.

First, Norodom Ranaridh has all the powerful associates starting from Hun Sen, CPP and Funcinpec's members of parliament, court and vote show of hands. Even N. Ranaridh himself is the president of the assembly. It seems that the theif and cop is the same person except different uniform.

Second, the due process in this case is unfair. For example, Cheam Channy hasn't been found guilty yet; however, he was captured and put against his will by not allowing any visiting. Is this a judge in democracy system?

Third, the CPP's member demanded that Sam Rainsy should apologize and admit what he said about the corruption was a "joke". This suggestion is not conciliation.

Besides, Norodom Ranaridh always brags again and again that he is a democracy person and he is the one who allows the democracy. Is present situation in Cambodia coincides with the democracy? If he is a democracy man and he wants conciliation, and after all, we always hear him saying that every time he joins with Hun Sen and the CPP is the sage of national conciliation. why won't Norodom Ranaridh forget this one court case with Sam Rainsy for the peace and prosperity of the nation. If the prince won't want to conciliate, may be Sam Rainsy doesn't have a jet transfer to him as Hun Sen.

My opinion the dispute of Norodom Ranaridh with Sam Rainsy and Chea Poch is a personal conflict. What the judge should do in this case is to ask the defendant and the prosecutor of both side to prove their case base on an evidence that each side can prove. If Sam Rainsy side cannot prove that Norodom Ranaridh is involve in corruption, the judge can make the decision that Sam Rainsy's side is making an allegation without concrete evidences. Therefore, it is the defamation, and the judge impose on compensation. The remendies in decision is hom much can be compensated for that all. It have no necessary to put in jail. Furtheremore, there is no need to strip of immunity of parliament at the first place.

However, the action of Norodom Ranaridh and Hun Sen were clearly to congest the democracy in Cambodian. Especially, Norodom Ranaridh and Hun Sen want to terminate the voice of opposition.

I am so glad that Sam Rainsy and Chea Poch escaped safely, otherwise, if they were captured, they would have been threw in jail, and keep delaying the court case by saying such and such or they could have been charged by the court whatever the court can please Norodom Ranaridh and Hun Sen. The worse scenario is that the court can put an house arrest on Sam Rainsy like the oppostion leader of Burmese.

SUBMITTED BY: Samoeun Chhim Email: Sam....@hotmail.com Fri, 25 Feb 2005

The Constitution of The Kingdom II of Cambodia - What’s in it?

February 23, 2005
The Constitution of The Kingdom II of Cambodia
(Kingly named Kambuja)
What’s in it?
By Prak Hap-FLUS

After a long absence of peace and societal harmony, at the world arm length supervision Cambodia produced this historical binding called the Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia.Let ‘s look at the original 1993 edition Constitution of the second coming Kingdom as Sihanouk coined it. The document was not for sale and unavailable to public knowledge. From a reader view, it needs a face lift in order to safeguard the unwanted result in the future. At first glance this supreme law is dubiously named Ratha Dhamma Nunha not Raja Dhamma Nunha. The name was in foreign language and it should be commonly in Khmer lay term. Its intention is for the royalty sake . The content of the document consisted of 14 Chapters with 139 Articles excluding Annexes signed by only Mr.Son Sann out of 26 authors on September 21,1993. Indeed my friends and esteemed scholars of Khmer origin,obviously this law was not originated from talent of stone carving people blood lines as the Preamble implied . It was totally shocking to see such ineptitude and lack of credibility in part by the Council.

If we look at its technicality reflected literacy inconsistency, and inadequacy which left open for malicious challenges as far as scrutiny and law interpretation. This English translated version lacks of coherence and punctuality. Seemingly, the authors did not take pride in the work. The articulation in English literary sense is rather elementary. The significance of linguistic inconsistency in glossary used i.e khmer, cambodia, state, kingdom, raja, ratha, parliament vs assembly, member vs deputies, religion vs state religion (Buddhism). The translation was shifting one word to another in reference to people of Cambodia and its monarchy. Former King had been heavy handed in picking his successor who is not at all fit Khmer genetic authenticity.The Present King Norodom Sihamoni is a pedigree of Italiano-Viet mixture and Siam. Such selection and self-serving activity was clearly forbidden in the Supreme Law Article 10 “ The King shall not have the power to appoint a heir to the throne.” At the masterful of manipulation the former King got his wish. To ensure the continuation of its extensive family rule, the authors subjugated Chapter III of 19 articles or 13.66% of the law body on Rights of Khmer Citizens (not Kambu-jan).

Chapter II is most prominant among all. Alone it has 24 articles or 17.26% of its entirety to cover the King. Then Chapter VII is the next higher with 23 articles or 16.54% to cover Assembly in other word people. It appears Chapter II’ is the principal focus of this law which is most benefitiary for the supreme family whether legitemate or illegitemate descendants of the Siam vassalage royalties Chao Phryah Nay Duong, Chao Phryah Nay Norodom or Sisowath. This brand of royalty of former King Sihanouk bears question of authenticity as some said he‘s kin to King Bhumipol Adulyadet of Thailand originated from people from China. In late 60’s I witnessed one of former King cousins a movie actress with incredible exhibitionist tantrum who had come to one of the temples nearby my village.Her traditional silky dress slipped off, she did not even care but kept walking and yelling at her servants to redress her in public. She treated female servants like nothing. All she ever spoke in public was Siamese? Was it supposed to be the palace special dialect then. People started to rumor all over the place what was she?Are these people whom the Constitution deemed to honor?

The essence of juris prudence and supremacy over any existed laws on land appear questionable. The way it read as it was written in a small corporation by laws fashion. Thus it raised visibility of non-clarity in argument and insufficient fundamental foundation. The law should bear intellectual wit and vision. However, based on the English literary version it appears fostering ground for arguments.It also appears to conveniently suit the demand of individual endeavours such as article 99 “the Council of Ministers shall be led by ONE Prime Minister but the learning curve in 1997, this law needed to re-enforce its validity by reconsidering changes in article 100 to make prime ministership as a popular vote in spite of majority winning political party in order to assure full participation from individual of qualification whether within the common party but the nomination made by the Assemly majority. The only individual at the political party leadership is unnecessary for the nomination process.

The problem is in article 138 the King appointed First and Second Prime Minister as head of the royal Government.This was unheard of in the world that a small country ran by two Prime Ministers at the same time. Modern countries do not amend law at the impulses of individuals. This law presented itself as non of people business but those in power circle.With such notion people seem carelessly unnotice of its merit. The July 1997 event was the calculated errors done by the leadership. Cambodia can’t embarrasse itself no more and the world generosity is being curt.

First, this document should be made available to people of learning and public. Best to make it accessible via public education as part of social-government study topic in middle schools where adlocescence begin acquiring more complex and critical learning skills. Teachers and educators should be entrusted to refresh students mind.I remebered in my young adulthood I had no idea what was Constitution all about beside hearing former King Sihanouk shouted in the national radio in his denouncement of Khmer rebellion or Khmer Republc. No clue what was he talking about. Never seen the damn book until March 18,1970 when some of my brave professors started debating what were the flaws of previous regime.Rural people probably can’’t even say its title correctly not to ask of its content.This is a major flaw in public education. It should not be treated as a satanic scripts to scare people off from learning it.

Second, as a small example when I was barely 7 years of age I could recite the entire reception of blessing after monks ate.That was not my mother language. It was afar land language and I had no clue what was it then. I learned by hearing it routinely. Our society possessed great learning mind as you can witness at the Buddhist temples. People do not rely on book in religious recitals like in the West.

Third, since the Constitution declared its sole allegiance to Buddhism then let’s make good use of monks to serve people rightfully and correctly from the scripts of law. Imagine hundred thousand of individual monks spent more time in idle and ado much nothing? Imagine how much responsibility people bear to keep these monks in good care and shelters? Ask what they have done for the country in monkhood? Monk shoud be required some learning and exams to be a monk not just anybody. Let’s make it as their societal obligation. Without bias in this matter the government should extent its consideration to other religions as well. Not imposing but requesting assistance in teaching people their utmost important awareness of such law.

Fourth, the flaws and negligences are pre-permeatably encouraging inadvertent conspiracy of state intimidation and unscrupulous manipulation. That’s the root of much parliamentary (assembly) weakness and deficiency such February 3, 2005 event, which was condemned by many and the world democracy. It certainly bolded the appearance of coercive directives and financial backlashes that impeded members from exercising fully conscientious determination. From a quick perusal,there were many flaws in literary,technicality, and common sense interpretation such as following:

Article 41: Khmer citizens shall have freedom of expression ,press,publication and assembly.The regime of media shall determine by the law that should defines media shall have the same rights as citizen in expression within the frame work of Constitution.Is this true?
Article 43: Buddhism shall be the state religion that should omit and alternatively as (religion shall be governed by the fundamental rights and belief of people choice).
Article 51:The Kingdom of Cambodia adopts a policy of liberal Democracy and pluralism.That’s was merely words in decorum not real action. Cambodia soon become one party country like China or North Korea or Cuba or best yet Viet Nam.
The Cambodian (Khmer) people are the masters of their own country” that is profanely perjorative statement.
Article 52: The Royal Governement of Cambodia shall protect (with people mandate to carry out duly responsibility to protect) the independence,sovereignty,territorial integrity of the Kingdom.. That is rubbish.Don’t believe me just look to the east and gulf og Siam or call Mr.Yim Guech Se for opinion.
The State (Government)should word “ must uphold priority to assure its citizens interests and benefits of standard socio-welfare and economic advantage. When?How? What a joke?
Article 76: The assembly consists of at least 120 members?? What ‘s that? This is not a contractual binding. Should it be more? It is a supreme law for people sake . Try a better choice of word and succinctly definitive . Try this “The Parliament is constitutionally required and made up of popularly elected people representatives of 120 individuals who met the constitutional requirements in order to perform duly national interest and business under oath of office.”
Depuites may be re-elected-what ‘s that? It needs to clarify eligibility of re-electable candidate.
Article 77: Deputies in assembly shall represent the (general) interestof the entire (public or citizens) Khmer people (too uncertain of role) not only Khmers (voters) from their (respective home based/ electorate jurisdiction) constituencies.
Article 79: Conflict of interest for MP position.Presently many holds more than one and belong to special interest group (need
definitive clause)
Article 80: Immunity is major violation in term the manner of vote and number (coersion). This is where hell breaks lose.
“No assembly member (inconsistentcy from deputies ) shall be placed under prosecution ,detention or (omit or with ;) arrest because of opinions expressed *needed a better words) during the exercise (sounded like they did Tai Chi) of duty the missing piece is legally protected under the law in the framework of Constitution without exhausting amenity and guarantying of proper legal due process in the court of law until further proof of guilt.... there are plenty more of flaws. This article is poorly written and no clause of protection and accountability.
Article 89: Too weak of command in words.....Need enforcement in the best interest of people or voters High official is acountable to people=Parliament scrutiny
Article 90: The assembly shall approve: Administrative Accounts (what accounts-big wigs’ or why?) and
The assembly shall approve the law (what law? Be specific) on amnesty (What?Why?Whom?) .No clarity.
Thugs plundering Kingdom treasury and pardoned the muderers (Ieng Sary,and alike).That ‘s not how law was written or ratified.The mechanism is so problematic and incoherent. Based on the skimpy clauses, three MPs were out for good. It sounds much like DK Constitution April 1976?
Article 91: It is too much of power to Prime Minister to run Parliament unless Prime Minister is popular elected like England.Need to change or get rid of it.Ridiculously Parliament can vote to increase their own salary if Country treasury in surplus whenever they wanted to. That ‘s what it meant?
Article 99: Is too clumsy and minister has too much leniency. Prime Minister is at the whims of ministers. May be that’s why they are so incorrigible and corruptive.
Article 132: is not good for the country. Amendment should be ratified and place for general public referendum. People do not know Constitution. It shoul limit Executive branch in this. This is dangerous especially for Cambodia. See what happened now?
Article 138: Rescind it definitely and do away with it altogether. King should have a final say or put it to referendum vote.

After titoeing on some of the sacred scripts in the booklet,it raised doubts and unsubtle feelings if you were not at the helm or a clique member. Legislative and Executive Branches were supposed to be in check and balance process in view of governmental affairs. I sincerely doubted neither authors such as Sam Rainsy,Son Soubert,Son Sann themself had read it throughly before its release or print. It leaves so many legal bias and open ends. It does not take a Lawyer or Doctorate Degree in English to find flaws in this Constitution.

There comes to conlude how this Supreme law protects people?It can’t even protect itself from so many abuses. We can’t blame people for distrusting the Government according to how everything was so heavenly irresponsible and condemnable. Other hand the Constitution is supposed to be a cornerstone of individual liberty and embedded rock solid public democracy at its vigorous defense. People are endowed with fundamental equality and entitlement according to its framework. Contrary, all these years the Second Kingdom Constitution could not substantially earned such appearance, how supreme could that be in the reader opinion?The livelihood of Cambodia and its innocent people fell victims of the constitutional crisis many times over within less than 12 years of its interim promulgation.Now, it is time to overhaul and permanently correct all flaws before it is too late. Presently if Cambodia can’t fully tame the caged tiger with the help from the sympathetic world, how it is going to control the beast when it violently broke out the aging cage? It is a scary thought.

Footnotes:


Blue:Suggestion
Red: relevancy to verse in law book
I. Sovereignity has 6 articles,
II. The King has 24 articles,
III. The Rights and Obligations of Khmers (not Cambodians) citizens has 20 articles,
IV. On Policy has 5 articles,
V. Economy has 9 articles,
VI. Education,Culture,Social Affairs has 11 articles,
VII. The Assembly has 23 articles,
VIII. The Royal Government has 10 articles,
IX. The Judiciary has 8 articles,
X. The Constitutional Council has 9 articles,
XI. The Administration has 2 articles,
XII. The National Congress has 3 articles,
XIII. Effects,Revison and Amendment of the Constitution has 4 articles,
XIV. Transitional Provisions has 5 articles,

SUBMITTED BY: By Prak Hap-FLUS Thursday, 24 Feb 2005

The Lesson Never Learned!?!

An estimated 1.7 million Cambodian were killed by starvation, disease, and execution during the radical Communist Khmer.

Saddly, not only 1.7 million Cambodian were killed, furthermore, Cambodian had brought another Communist. This time the Communist was not Khmer but foreign Communist. This foreign Communist deceived Cambodian. They were delibrately invated Cambodian, and yet they claimed that they came to save Cambodian. Moreover, the one who benefited from the regime deified this invader like God.

When Vietnames invated Cambodia, Cambodian expressed their appreciation toward Vietnames that included me personally. I was gladed because I was told to, and I was appreciated they were there to chase the Khmer Rouge and I had never thought that the Vietnames were there to kill more Khmer. I had never question as my superior told me to worship the invader troops. I was being brain washed.

However, I am now so upset when our Cambodian leader try to brian wash the world, for example, when American invaded Iraq, Cambodian said that American should not invade Iraq. Why would you say that?

Isn't that American there is to save Iraqies from Suddum Husein? Isn't that American there to prosper democracy to the Iraq people from the killing and from the dictatorship regime?

Why didn't you say that Vietnamese invade Cambodian was wrong? Why were you so happy with the Veitnamese invasion? Were you happy because you benefited?

Well, when asked why Cambodian government said that American invaded Iraq was wrong? The answer was American there in Iraq for geo-politics and oil purposes.

Now the smart Cambodian, ask yourself these questions. What did the Vietname do to your forest? What did they do to your natural resources like trees, fish and some national treasures? Did the Vietnamese savior bring democracy to your country? Did Vietnamese enlarge your border? and How many times did Hun Sen have to sign the border encroachment?

I am so disappointed at Cambodian government that see the fault of American in Iraq but they have not seen what the Communist Vietnames had done to Cambodia.

For me to choose between American and Vietname, I would choose American. At least American bring democracy.

Eh! this is my opinion. I am not provoking the racial prejudice toward the Vietnamese after all they kind helped us (one arrow killed two birds). I only ask us to look at the agenda before you worship them like God.

Never the less, before, you say something to American, you Cambodian leaders should look at yourself and your country as our country. That are more than twenty years, Cambodian leaders and king are still pointing finger at each other. It seems that they are only want to blame the mistake on the former Khmer Rouge. Every time they open their mouth, they have repeatedly brought up, the killing field, the Khmer Rouge and Ieng Sary, Pol Pot and Khmer Rouge trail.

Please, Mr. scholars and Mr. politicians or Mr. leaders of Cambodian, try to understant, why there was such a killing? Why was such a cause to Cambodian?

Let me mention to you something that you should look at our previous society before the killing field regime had started. You should ask the following questions: what was our Cambodian society structure like, had everyone been treated fairly, was our justice system serve every Cambodian equally include farmers and labourers, had every Cambodian citizen protected under the law or only the riches, powerful people, elite and king that have the previlleges, had every Cambodian been informed and educated, especially farmers?

My answer is non of above has been done. Therefore, I want to say to politicians or leaders of Khmer now and former ones. Turn your finger to yourself and blame yourself. You are the one that caused the killing field. Khmer Rouge and Killing field are just the cause and effect.

I predict that there will be something quite the same to killing field can happen to Cambodian in the future if the present leaders don't learn from the past. Remember, we, human tend to repeat our history!

SUBMITTED BY: Sam Chhim Email: Sam....@hotmail.com Wend, 23 Feb 2005

Remember the day,March 18,1970

February 22,2005
By Prak Hap -FLUS

My friends and friends of democracy:

The historical day that endeared my adulthood back in Cambodia is approaching.I am overwhelmed with undescribable feeling whether to celebrate or forget it. But my conscience can’t ignore the fact and courage of people who stood before me. I can’t let it pass without reminding friends who wished there would be something we could do for it. Well,this much to remember and share it with our friends.

Amid threats and transgression from neighboring land grabbing Viet Nam, Cambodia was at the dawn of historical changes on March 18,1970. People spoke and removed demi-god monarchist from power. On this very day, under the order of the very man who claimed to be father of all things in Cambodia” my beloved children must join hands with my benevolent friend Viet Cong and rise up against the despots Lon Nol-Sirik Matak.” Please note long before this day North Viet Nam received blessings and millions of dollars in material assistances from Sihanouk to set up camp and then recruit those soon become horrific murderers of the century.

35 years ago my very Cambodia became Khmer Republic. The mood of Cambodia was elated on such a day.It was liberated by Sihanouk own sins.The Parliament took up the bold step to ensure people that Cambodia was no longer belong to one family rule. People should determine their country destiny.No more yo-yo to dictate our lives. We all felt no more kneeling on dirt for such family to walk on our back anymore. We were free of manipulation. We were free from the over 2000 year old self depricated regimes.We were ecstatic.People of sincerity and clear conscience lauded the Parliament action.

The Isle of Peace, Cambodia as affectionately called by its people, was engulfed in the undeclared war that perpetrated by both Viet Nam of North and South.The anarchy was rampant at the urge of the insane Sihanouk.Immeasurable pains and destruction was taken toll on those who innocently loved their country.It was a power game between Sihanouk and the patriotic Khmers.It was a legitimate struggle between the ruled and the ruler.It was the dual of justice vs.injustuce.It was the elevation of self rule and determination. It was the glimpse of the fundamental unalienated rights of human being to pursuit life, liberty,and happiness.It was the triumph of the common people.

March 18,1970 signified progressive trend and motivation for the following generations. Parliament took task to the heart and reformed the system and government without eliminating its infrastructures. It allowed very same people who blindly worshipped Sihanouk to stay in power at the expenses of reconciliatory attitude .

But the dream and glimpse of its realization lasted for merely five years until the sanguine children in black pajamas walked in to claim their evil father rightful ownership of Cambodia on April 17,1975. We fell for their false pretense and entrapment . Cambodia just turned to be a killing fileds at the command of its father from afar”Vengeance was finally at yours,my beloved children destroy the despots and followers.”

Pity for Cambodia,once it rid the evil but at the whims of the world and self-serving politicains,Cambodia has cheated its true conscience and morality to restore moral deficit and egregious ruler once again.

My fellow Khmers, when the day comes each of us who truly embrace democracy,individual liberty,equality in man kind should be solemnly in silence before diner and wishing those of whom perrished in the name of struggle to preserve our country dignity and sovereign integrity as our guidance to futher the dream and remember the day by saying “ Happy Khmer Republic Day.”

SUBMITTED BY: Prak Hap FLUS Tues, 22 Feb 2005

Recurrent Nightmare in Cambodia

Dear all:

Eminently, Cambodia infant democracy and liberty is at crossroad once again. The following Cambodia Members of Parliament Mr. Sam Rainsy, Mr.Chea Poch, and Cheam Channy constitutionally vested rights were blatantly stripped. Our fellow America’s Cambodians across regions are concerned and condemning the pact and rubber stamp parliament action on February 3, 2005.

Seemingly, the gentlemen are singled out and set example for daring to legally and publicly challenge the current leadership transparency and accountability. Unsurprisingly, it appears the leadership and its pact purposely granted no proper due process guaranty of the Cambodia very judiciary process. The message is purposely and obviously to those are on sidelines not to follow such path. This action alone is detrimental and a deterrence to many who are aspired by the spirit of democracy.

Even more so such act is a slap in the face to the United Nations and donor countries. Those responsible needed to be brought to accountability.

For the last almost 40 years, Cambodia hasn’t had opportunity to cherish self-determination and fully respected human rights. It was just barely recovered from suppressive and self-destructive rules of its previous totalitarian-dictatorial governments and Viet Nam occupation between 1979-1993. The entire current governmental system was full of corruption, secretive and rubber-stamping activities at the stronger and powerful disposals.

Up to now Cambodia has not holistically changed. It is pejorative and dubious.

Most officials are the same ones who have not done any difference but illegally amass wealth and terrorize future generations. The same formally high-ranking Khmer Rouge cadres and tyrants are still at the helms. Most are holding more than two positions. There is no limit how many roles each of those selective officials can have in Cambodia circus. Feudalism and poverty are rampant. The entire nation is still traumatized by the Khmer Rouge’s Killing Fields experiences and uncertainty of tribunal.

As you can see people are profoundly wary of those in power practices and mentality.

In retrospect, Cambodia people had suffered immensely from the out spilled aftermaths of the US decades of involvement in Viet Nam and received much less attention as supposed to those of Balkan region, and recently Afghanistan and Iraq.

In US and Cambodia alike, the infamous Killing Fields surviving siblings feel the US government action is necessary to safeguard democracy and human dignity. No one knows surely when Cambodia will receive full respect and moral responsibility from its past violators.

In the eyes of US politicians and governmental leaders, Cambodia secretive bombings and operations such as” Menu-Breakfast or else” in the 70’s were unmentionably. Not an action or an eye browse rose for that. Nada! Null!

As this great democracy and humanitarian nation citizens of Cambodia heritage, we are disheartened and saddened that we are still belonged to too secretive operation up to now. The situation in our ancestral land is somewhat a reminder for those of us here who tried to advocate for the not daring one. There is no end result to it. We demand equality in treatment and respect.

For the record US owe Cambodia an apology and a moral responsibility. It may need to exert enough pressure to restore peace and dignity for Cambodia once for all.

Truly,
Prak Hap

SUBMITTED BY: Prak Hap FLUS Monday, 21 Feb 2005

Honor Your Origin?

By Prak Hap FLUS

There are lessons that I have personally learned through my living in US over the last quater of century. The cultural norms, attitude, and socio-economic in Khmer American communities did not change much. Post 1975, there were over 370,000 Khmer refugees resettled in US . My family and I were among them.In addition there were quite a few of people of Cambodia were here before refugee influx. Most of these people do not like to be grouped as refugees. People entitles to their view and opinion. Some say,they were not refugees but immigrants who resettled here by choice. Their perception was rather unique but uninterestingly to US government. In their official eyes we all were refugees.

What is the distinction between the two classification?

Khmer immigrant willingly leaves the country of origin to pursuit betterment of self-economic and livelihood endeavours. Most of them belong to the former Cambodia afluent mover and shaker families. Some were either under sponsorship of US governement some types to enhance educational needs to help Khmer Republic government. Presently half were back in Cambodia. Some utilized family relations and names to vying for jobs in Cambodia government. The attitude is clear they belong to elites.

In contrast, refugee was a person in fear of political persecution or life threatening by government or its agent of such former country of origin. Clearly,the refugee came here because of no alternative but to survive.Most were physically here but their hearts were still in their former birthland. Most of these folks ended up not much further than when they were in Cambodia.They were the masses and used by the ambition of those who seek Cambodia spotlights.The true nature of the refugee was pity and sentimental.They would pick from mouths and plates to help finance those who aimed for political contests.

Why is it such a concern?

In reality, one can’t say cheese is better than milk. Generally immigrant, not just Khmers, self-pride seems to supersede origin national pride not to mention the commonality among themselves. In early 80’s I witnessed such unbearable reaction and division among our fellow Khmers who were fortunate to have left Cambodia before Pol Pot took control of the country. I had opportunities to participate in a number of Khmer organized conventions, but to my amaze there appeared to have two different school of thoughts with an invisible divide. At such occassions, Khmer immigrants tend to look away if Khmer refugees approached them for fellowship.It was sad and disheartened to see that. From experiences, refugees belong to lower stratas and perceived as inferior to immigrants. The prejudice ran high and sense of fellowship was at rift. In fact most refugees were under-educated and from rural Cambodia but possessed genuine interest in birth country. A lot of them were abused but yet regretful to have left land of their heritage.

Other prejudice came from non Khmers.They seemed to anticipate we would soon change names and lifestyle to fit in.I personally have been attacked why did I not change my birth name to a more westerner name? I unapologetically replied with a grin that it was the most lovingly and honorably gift from my parents. After their first glimse of me,that’s what they expected people to know and call me with. It was an honorable badge from my parents. Some of my fellows seem concerned much of other people inability to properly address their names. My point, it was the wish of my parent and I can’t abandon it no matter where I ended up in life.Other point, English was not my choice of tongue but I managed it. Others are human as much as I am thus learn mine the least my name.

Nontheless, I had an opportunity to visit my birth home in 2000, I could smell prejudice all the ways from Airplane tarmac to market places. The treatment was unsual for my own self impression.My sentiment ran deep but disappointed with such subtle divisiveness. I was appalled for the first hour of my landing that I was called immigrant of my own birthland that I dreamt to return to pay respect to my lucky relatives who did not have to flee for their lives as I had. However,I still can’t emphasize with those who seem to think their adopted environment here is much heaven like than their original root. Sadly,that was a buttefly attitude.

Years ago I have learned an eye opening lesson at the convention in New York. By choice I sat and shared table with one of the fifth generation Japanese Americans of Seattle who was so consumed by the theme of the convention” Building Bridge for Asian America”. At luncheon we were more at ease with one another then he said to me admirably that “people from Cambodia appeared to work hard to preserve their heritage in here and I respected that. Early on my people (Japaneses) seemed to hurry to be Americanized but they regretted what affected them during World War II. Now they try to reverse it. My friend no matter how American I’d be but the Whites still asked me where I was from?said he. At first, I was very upset with them but later I recognized it was not their fault but all my parents’ parents’ parents’ parents.”

This in parallel with testimonial reminder from the first Asian woman of Korean heritage ever elected to Florida House of Representatives in early 90’s. She gently advised that she was under the impression that she’s American as much as the next person. In tears she eloquently awaken my spinal cord:” Appear nothing if one shames of own heritage among own natural herd as if other not notice. I apologized to my Korean constituency if I had not been closer to my heritage. I admitted I was not sure anymore until my colleagues at the Capitol asked where I was from with such good English? Folks you understand prejudice and condescendence when you faced one.Therfore do not dry out your root too soon.”


I like to leave this tought with my other fellow Khmer born, I say honor my parents first, may be the rest secondary.

SUBMITTED BY: Prak Hap FLUS Saturday, 19 Feb 2005

be proud of who we are

I think we should all be proud of who we are. We overcame the war and have struggled to be who we are today. Cambodians. We are proud of our culture which was almost destroyed forever by menacing men. Cambodia is a poor country today but when I have graduated from college and university, I, a cambodian will dedicate my time to teach young, poor
kids to write, to speak to play instruments so that the country will become an advanced place. As long as the cambodians trust me, I will try my best to help my country become successful. I may be 12 right now, but my feelings are really strong.

SUBMITTED BY: Molica Kong

How cheap a Cambodian

Said N. Ranaridh and reported by The Cambodia Daily in February 15, 2005.

I want to let the expensive Prince N. Ranaridh know that I am a Cambodian, my relatives are Cambodian and my friends are Cambodian, and my neighbours' united in blood are Cambodian. We are in the category that called " how cheap a Cambodian." We are the Cambodian, we are not cheap.

My relatives, my friends and my neighbours have been killed for this country, for this nation and for this kingdom. They have sheded their blood repeatedly, so that you can enjoy the luxury over the blood shed that all of my friends provided, yet you called us " ...cheap..Cambodian"

I think you are cheap, not us. Look at yourself, you cannot lead Funcipec. You lost half of your members of Assembly in recent election. You lost our trust.

About a month ago, you knew you won't survive in the future election because the people nationally and internationally have lost their confident in you. So, you unshamely wanted to melt the Funcinpec with CPP. Have you ever thought about the Funcinpec's background? Have you ever thought of liberty, rights, free expression and freedom and democracy for the least cause that my relatives and others in our nation have spared their drop of blood? Why can my relatives' blood be compensated for freedom and democracy everywhere to everyone in Cambodian?

I think your embition of power and luxury that you fear to be lost made you acted so unthougtful. Why haven't you think about the blood of many men including my relatives who died for Funcinpec's purposes?

I think you are a cheap person yourself, it is not us who are Cambodian.

Look at recent dispute between you, N. Ranaridh and Hun Sen with Sam Rainsy. These disputes are personal. They have nothing to do with Cambodia. However, you provoked the issues such as stripped out the immunity of other members of parliament and allowed one member of parliament captured in jail. In the name of the President of Assembly, it meant that the president of assembly protect the members of parliament. It does not to encourage the justice department use their force before the accuse has been investigated which lead to a charge. Well, it doesn't matter anyway because this is your plan to destroy the opposition,isn't it? and we have noticed all along,for example,to punish Sam Rainsy and his party, you have isolated Sam Rainsy's members of Parliament which has represented among many voices of Cambodian from any commitee in Assembly and Senate. It's proximated 1,000,000 citizen of Cambodia who supported Sam Rainsy Party has no voice at all. What is this, is it a democracy? Who is cheap here?!

More over,if you think that you and your government are excersising the democracy,I think, you and Hun Sen must strip the immunity too. This is for the sage of free and fair justice. Why you and Hun Sen must strip off your immunity because it needs to be fair and to make way for the judge to investigate on the alligation to both sides. Thefore, neither side shouldn't have any previllege. But have these been done so? Well, what can one do when the untouchable prince and prime mister who think that they are expensive, and us are cheap?!

In my opinion, I would like to ask my friends united in blood who are Cambodian near or far away including international community must interfere with the Cambodian internal politics because N. Ranaridh, Hun Sen and associates are making personal profit from Cambodian which he called " how cheap a Cambodian". These people are abusing and twisted our democracy which is being planted since 1993 by 2.00 billion dollars US from the kind international community who want to see our Cambodian prosper and free. It is not like some people just called us, " how cheap a Cambodian", is sucking us. I am afraid if we allowe this kind of power abusing, Cambodian will have a power of elite to control us as Cambodian. If this happen, the well being of our nation will not be prosper because we cannot express our concerns and our intelligents to build our country. Moreover, we are being planted as, "...cheap Cambodian".

We must put our strength together with the international communtiy to demand and to compensate the true freedom and democracy to Cambodian.

In addition,I think the word " how cheap a Cambodian" should have never be used by a politician who is a Cambodian representative in the National Assembly and who is ough to be known as well educated, and unmistakeable you are a member of the King of Cambodian. We give you the previllege because we think that you are kind and noble person, don't act like a barbarian!

SUBMITTED BY: Samoeun Chhim

What I, Hun Sen, really admire N. Ranaridh the most

After 2.00 billion dollars from the international community poured in to build the Cambodia which they called " democracy", the democary in Cambodia has never been one very clear but deceptive democracy. The democracy in Cambodia is the politics to steal the money from the international community and to get build up debts for the next generation of Cambodian. The World Bank and Asian Developement Bank have played a little trick to give and the government of Cambodia just solved a little trick to get. That's it!

The next thing before one knows, the Cambodian young generation are growing up with the world debts on their back. If they profit $5.00 US from selling Ta Korn or Bro Lit from the lake in the back yard, they have to pay $3.00 US for national debts. What's left to these young generation is plenty of poverty, justice and democracy to only Hun Sen and his family and associates, the justice systems will be free and fair when Hun Sen and his associates say so, there are no corruption in Cambodia it is only given for complement of good services from the government official, we have a very good constitution that written by many scholars,however, I am Hun Sen and my associates are illiterated and we don't have time to learn to spell why should I bothered which is easier when I just say and people do it any way, and if they don't do that I have 3,000 personal body guards who are very highly trained and they are willing to die for me anytime. Oh, interm of the king, I don't have time to drive to his palace and my back is hurting me when I bow in front of him. That's why I don't want to consult with him. Anyway, I, Hun Sen, am having good prince with me together in politics. I want to show you my popet star is prince N. Ranaridd. He is with us CPP forever, who care if FUNCINEC melted like salt and hot water? I and my CPP kicked him and tendered him so many time, but N. Ranaridh is so fatful, not fateful. I, Hun Sen, thinks that N. Ranaridh can be my prostitute in politics. I am Hun Sen is the Prime Minister and he, N. Ranaridh, is the Assembly President. I, Hun Sen, one day put our nick name together as Rithy-Sen, great eh!

One time, Rithy-Sen kicked out the president of CPP, Chea Sim out of Cambodia and I told everyone to tell other stupid ones that Chea Sim was sick. I felt sorry for that old fool that he underestimated my power.

We, Rity-Sen, are really together. What I, Hun Sen, really admire N. Ranaridh the most is that he has his Doctor of Philosophy in Law, but he doesn't understant a thing about law and democracy, me, Hun Sen, has never gone to law school but I have many doctors in law.

A week ago, Ranaridh really showed me, Hun Sen, his skills in law to strip out sam Rainsy, Cheam Channy and Chea Poch behind the close door. I, Hun Sen, kind dissapointed when we couldn't coner Sam Sainsy; Sam Rainsy hopped in the back truck of American made GM. Sam Rainsy might say bravo, but Ranaridh told them to shut up that you are American interfered with our home.

I, Hun Sen, laughed my one eye off when all five Americans shout that we can't come to their home. It was even funnier when N. Ranaridh said he didn't want learn any lesson in democracy from American home, and N. Ranaridh added that American had never help him.

Well, I, Samoeun Chhim, am thank you World Bank, Asian Developement Bank and International Community that have created a confusing democracy. I don't know what to say except that prepare to my portion of national debts under a dictatorship regime of democracy.

SUBMITTED BY: Samoeun Chhim

Cambodian current govt. persue a policy of an authoritarian oppression

Just a persoal point of view that if the Cambodian current government is continuing to persue a policy of an authoritarian oppression on its ordinary people,As up-to-date, it's almost 91%,the cambodian live under the level of poverty. There is no clear strategy of how to improve the lives of the indinary people. Instead,this current government used its own people for its own living styles. I fear that one day, the bloodshed could occur again.

SUBMITTED BY: yuos khieu