King Norodom Sihanouk said he is concerned about the stability of the country but has no power to suspend National Police Director General Hok Lundy, as requested by an opposition parliamentarian.
“I am seriously sad and concerned about the political crisis environment, which is gradually becoming more serious,” the King wrote in a letter dated Wednesday and addressed to Sam Rainsy Party lawmaker Son Chhay.
“Relating to your request, please, Excellency, understand and forgive me because I am unable, have no power, and no solution in order to solve this problem,” the King added.
Son Chhay wrote the King on Monday seeking Hok Lundy’s suspension as officials from the Alliance of Democrats criticized the police’s investigation into the Jan 22 shooting death of union leader Chea Vichea.
Son Chhay’s appeal to the King was followed by a request from the Cambodian Watchdog Council—a coalition of union and student groups—for Hok Lundy to be removed.
In a letter addressing the council Thursday, the King said only the government can decide whether to remove Hok Lundy.
“I would like to add that there are many times and every week I have written articles by my hand in order to criticize the authority who is the one responsible” for investigating the crimes, the King wrote. “I have already fulfilled my duty as a King.”
Son Chhay on Thursday said he was disappointed by the King’s response.
“I am very regretful, but we understand the King’s difficulties,” Son Chhay said. He said he would write to Hun Sen directly.
Hok Lundy is out of the country and could not be reached for comment.
