The Senate unanimously approved a draft law which will amend the Law on Nationality during an extraordinary session of the 5th legislature on Monday, September 1, after reviewing and debating the proposal.
The draft law, which consists of two articles, aims to amend and supplement the legal framework concerning the loss of Cambodian nationality, through the revocation of citizenship for individuals residing either in Cambodia or abroad, in accordance with the newly revised Article 33 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia.
“The Senate unanimously approved the entire draft law without any changes, with all 54 senators voting in favour,” said a press release on the outcome of the session.
The draft law was described as an important legal tool to guarantee constitutionality, protect peace and national sovereignty, and prevent any activities that undermine the supreme interests, dignity and integrity of the Cambodian nation and its people. The amendment is also intended to demonstrate the strength of the legal framework in reinforcing national defence.
The press release noted that, in recent times, the nation has faced a tense situation, including territorial aggression by a foreign state.
Meanwhile, it added, a small number of Cambodian citizens — particularly those residing abroad — have allegedly engaged in “treacherous acts” by conspiring with foreign powers, committing national betrayal and causing serious harm to the peace of the people and to national security, as well as to the country’s supreme interests. This, it stressed, comes at a time when the Cambodian government has been striving to strengthen national defence and promote economic and social development.
The draft law was first approved by the National Assembly on August 25, with 120 votes in favour, during the 4th session of the 7th legislature.
Senator Neang Phat, chair of the Senate Committee on Interior, National Defence, Public Function and Border Affairs, reported on the results of the review of the draft law. During the session, five senators offered comments, which were clarified by Minister of Interior Sar Sokha.
