Press release on conflict between ECCC's co-investi​gating judges

PRESS RELEASE

CHRAC Expresses Concern over the Emerging Conflict between Co-Investigating Judges

Phnom Penh, 9 December 2011

[for immediate release]

The newly emerging conflict between the Co-Investigating Judges at the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) is seen with great concern, and the Cambodian Human Rights Action Committee (CHRAC) urges the Co-Investigating Judges to work together in professional harmony, holding respect for judicial independence and rule of law. This is a matter of grave importance, as aging Civil Parties are tired of the constant delays with regard to the pending Cases 003 and 004. They expect the judiciary to fulfill its duty - to reach an independent decision within a reasonable time.

CHRAC, a coalition of 23 NGOs working in the fields of human rights, democracy, and rule of law, believes it is unjustifiable that the work of an already sworn-in judge is hampered. The ECCC law is clear in this respect. In accordance with Articles 25 and 26 of the ECCC Law, the foreign reserve Co-Investigating Judge was already appointed in an official manner. According to Article 27 new of the ECCC Law he – by law – replaces the former Co-Investigating Judge and is obligated to fulfill his duties.

We therefore urge both Co-Investigating Judges to work together in good faith and in accordance with their duties under the ECCC Law and the Internal Rules. Further delays could seriously damage the perception of the ECCC. Civil society will fulfill its own obligation by continuing to monitor any upcoming decisions and demanding an independent judiciary. With that in mind, civil society will celebrate Human Rights Day on 10 December 2011 under the theme “Independent Judiciary and Freedom of Expression are Foundations of Social Justice and Respect for Human Rights.”

For more information, please contact:

Mr. Thun Saray Chairman of CHRAC/President of ADHOC Tel: 016 440 044

Mr. Sok Sam Oeun Executive Director of CDP Tel: 012 901 199

Mr. Hang Chhaya Executive Director of KID Tel: 012 865 910

Mr. Run Saray Executive Director of LAC Tel: 012 838 341

___________________________
Cambodian Human Rights Action Committee (CHRAC)
Address: # 9E0, St. 330, Sangkat Boeung Keng Kong III,
Khan. Chamcar Morn, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Tel/Fax: 855 23 218 759 , Tel: 855 23 301 415 , 305 609
E-mail: chrac@forum.org.kh or chracsecretariat@yahoo.com
Web: http://www.chrac.org