Kambodscha auf dem Weg zum Einparteienstaat? – Die Gemeindewahlen 2007

Abstract

On April 1st, Cambodia’s second Commune/Sangkat Council Election took place. Eight million Cambodians went to the polling stations to cast their votes for one of the 12 standing parties. The ruling Cambodia People’s Party could consolidate its power and won even more Council seats than in previous Commune/Sangkat Council Elections. While prime minister Hun Sens’ party even became stronger and by now holds 70% of all Council/Sangkat seats, the royalists lost votes and just the oppositional Sam Rainsy Party was able to extend its almost nationwide representation. Election observers were satisfied with the election process that was fairly free and fair even though irregularities were reported during the election preparation and campaigning time. The Election Day itself, however, was considered as one of the best in Cambodia’s young history since the adaptation of democracy.