A Cambodian Senate statement has described Thailand as playing the roles of “provocateur, accuser, judge, jury and executioner”, following an unprovoked November 12 attack on Cambodian civilians. One villager was shot to death in the firing, while at least three were injured.
In a late-night press statement on the same day, a Senate spokesperson strongly condemned the attack by Thai armed forces on Cambodian civilians in Prey Chan village, Banteay Meanchey province, which it regarded as a “flagrant violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as a grave breach of international humanitarian law, the Charter of the United Nations, the ASEAN Charter, and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC)”.
According to Maly Socheata, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence, Thai soldiers opened fire on Cambodian citizen who were walking on a dyke, wounding two people. When other people when to rescue them, they opened fire again, killing one on the spot and leaving another injured.
The Senate spokesperson noted that the tragic incident occurred despite the Joint Declaration signed in Kuala Lumpur on October 26, reaffirming both countries’ commitment to peace and the peaceful settlement of disputes and other prior agreement made bilaterally.
“Such an act of aggression by Thailand represents a serious breach of mutual trust and a direct violation of the established mechanisms for dialogue and cooperation,” noted the statement, adding that Thailand has fabricated a series of false accusations, including landmine allegations and cross-border threats to justify its hostile behaviour.
“The spokesperson wishes to express deep regret that, in relations between neighbouring countries, one side appears to assume the dual role of both actor and referee, instead of respecting the principles of equality and mutual respect,” it said.
“Thailand has not only fabricated accusations but has also taken upon itself the role of judge, juror, and executioner, deciding unilaterally who is guilty and who is innocent. Such arrogance has no place in international relations governed by law, dialogue, and mutual respect,” it continued.
It reiterated that since the July 28 ceasefire was implemented, Cambodia has exercised the utmost restraint, refraining from retaliation despite repeated provocations, in full respect of the principles of peace and good neighbourliness. However, Cambodia will never compromise its sovereignty or dignity.
The Senate added that it stands united with the government in defending Cambodia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the safety of its citizens.
“Cambodia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to peace, dialogue and the rule of law, but warns that any attempt to destroy peace or harm innocent Cambodian citizens will be met with a firm and resolute defence of the nation’s sovereignty,” it continued, adding “Peace must be protected, truth must be upheld, and justice must prevail”.
