Sam Rainsy Party (SRP) leader Kong Korm has rebuked the party’s former leader and namesake Sam Rainsy for annulling a decision to replace Senator Thak Lany midway through her term.
On Tuesday, Mr. Korm, who took over as SRP leader in a place-holder capacity after Mr. Rainsy helped form the CNRP in July 2012, said that a February 18 decision—revealed in an internal party letter obtained Tuesday—allowing Ms. Lany to serve out her senatorial term went against a pledge once made by Mr. Rainsy in Paris in front of party members.
“The fact is that only three members—myself, Hong Sok Hour and Teav Vannol…were allowed to stay for the full mandate,” Mr. Korm said.
“For [Ms. Lany’s] case, Sam Rainsy promised to change her when she reached her mid-term, so then a reserve candidate could take her post and have the chance to serve the nation.”
Mr. Korm said it was unfair for Mr. Rainsy, who is currently on another trip to Paris, to now reverse that decision. Ms. Lany could not be reached for comment.
