SKP Phnom Penh, July 14, 2026—

The Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Japan has strongly rejected a recent opinion piece published by Nikkei Asia, calling its characterization of the country’s political landscape unbalanced and inaccurate.

In a press statement issued Tuesday, July 14, 2026, the embassy addressed the July 13 op-ed titled "Cambodia's democracy died slowly after Kem Ley's murder," authored by self-exiled former opposition politician Mu Sochua. The embassy stated that the article represents a "political opinion rather than an objective assessment of Cambodia's present realities," pointing to the author's long-standing campaigns against the Royal Government of Cambodia from abroad.

While affirming its respect for freedom of expression and the media's role in public debate, the embassy explicitly disagreed with the piece's central conclusion that democracy has ceased to exist in the Southeast Asian nation.
"Cambodia continues to operate under its Constitution, with functioning state institutions, regular electoral processes, and ongoing reforms," the embassy stated, adding that democracy should be measured by comprehensive national development and institutional resilience rather than the political fortunes of a single individual or party.

The embassy highlighted Cambodia's rapid socioeconomic transformation over the past two decades, citing recognition from the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and Asian Development Bank regarding its resilient economic recovery. It also defended the independence of the nation's judicial processes, stating that legal accountability applies to all individuals regardless of political affiliation.

Turning to international relations, the embassy rejected assertions that its foreign policy is narrow, emphasizing constructive ties globally and reiterating its 30-year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Japan. The statement underscored Tokyo's long-standing contributions to Cambodia's infrastructure, education, healthcare, and peacebuilding efforts as a cornerstone of its modern diplomacy.

The embassy concluded by urging international observers and media outlets to evaluate the country based on objective evidence rather than selective narratives from a small number of political actors.

Statement by the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Japan