Anti-Corruption Law Enacted: New Measures to Combat Corruption

Phnom Penh, Cambodia - In a significant move to combat corruption, the government has enacted new laws designed to punish those who engage in corrupt practices and seize their ill-gotten gains.

Enhanced Collaboration with Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU)

According to Article 29 of the law, the Chairman of the ACU can:

• Order public authorities, government officials, citizens holding public office through election, as well as units concerned in the private sector, including financial institutions, to cooperate with ACU officials in investigations.
• Request national and international institutions to collaborate in forensic examinations related to corruption investigations.

Procedures for Seizure and Trial of Criminal Cases

The law outlines procedures for seizure and trial of criminal cases related to corruption offenses. Specifically:

• Article 30 states that seizures will be implemented in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure.
• Article 31 requires judges to open trials promptly after receiving complaints.

Punishable Corruption Offenses

The law lists various corruption offenses punishable by imprisonment, fines, or both, including:

• Bribery
• Embezzlement
• Abuse of power
• Illicit enrichment

For example:

• Under Article 33, foreign public officials or officials of public international organizations who accept bribes can be sentenced to seven years to 15 years in prison.

Confiscation of Unexplainable Property

According to Article 36, individuals who fail to provide a reasonable explanation for an increase in their wealth beyond their legal income may face:

• Confiscation of the unexplainable property
• The confiscated property will become state property

Strengthening Anti-Corruption Efforts

The new laws aim to strengthen Cambodia’s efforts to combat corruption and promote transparency and accountability.