Khmer Rouge judgment seen bringing Cambodia closer to rule of law

PHNOM PENH - In extending the sentence of former Khmer Rouge prison chief Kaing Guek Eav from 35 years to life in prison in its appeal ruling Friday, the Supreme Court Chamber of the UN-backed Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia has brought the country closer to the rule of law.

"Justice is done," said Huy Vannak, a public relations officer at the Khmer Rouge tribunal.

In a country where the judicial system is considered poor and rule of law remains a big issue, economists say the ruling is expected to boost confidence among potential long-term foreign investors who often fret about the unclear legal environment.

Chan Sophal, president of the Cambodian Economic Association, said that the outcome of the trial meant that Cambodia was moving towards the rule of law which is important for long-term investment.

"Some investors, like the Japanese, think long-term while others think short-term," he said. "Long-term investors like the Japanese emphasize the rule of law which is very important for them. 

"The trial could convince Japanese investors that Cambodia is moving towards justice and the rule of law. So it could increase their confidence in Cambodia," he said.

Chan Sophal said he hoped that  more more Japanese would invest in Cambodia if they were confident in  the legal system. Short-term investors, on the other hand, fear legal restrictions on making money.

Ganty Sam, a professor at the Financial Institute of Cambodia, said  political stability was crucial for investment. When investors consider Cambodia, he said, they look at many factors including the rule of law and justice. 

He said the outcome of the trial could be a "social solution" to the suffering in the hearts of Cambodian people for many years. "With justice done, people's suffering will disappear, having an important psychological impact which could contribute to economic development," he said.

At the same time, however, he said Cambodia needs to focus on human resource development, especially in the area of information technology.

Aing Thyda, from India's Healol Pharmaceuticals, said that the outcome of the trial would promote the rule of law in Cambodia as a country that sticks by legal principles.

"I strongly believe that the trial will boost confidence in Cambodia among foreign investors," he said. "If Cambodia has no rule of law, investors won't come." source

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