Cambodian Justice Minister Urges Improved Judicial Services and Reform Progress

Minister of Justice of Cambodia, Deputy Prime Minister Khuon Rith, has instructed judicial officials to focus on improving the quality and efficiency of justice services for citizens. This directive is considered a crucial step in the ongoing judicial system reform. Deputy Prime Minister Khuon Rith made these remarks during the official inauguration ceremony of the new buildings for the Kampot Provincial Court and the Kampot Provincial Prosecutor’s Office on September 24, 2026. He stated that the development of infrastructure at provincial courts and prosecutor’s offices is essential to accommodate the increasing number of cases and staff, thereby enhancing justice services for the public. The government has continuously addressed the essential needs of the justice sector, including securing land for court premises and constructing new buildings. This is expected to enable judicial officials to perform their duties more actively and efficiently, contributing to the overall image improvement of the justice sector. The Deputy Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the Kampot Provincial Administration for providing two locations: one for the construction of the new court building and another for a warehouse to store evidence. Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister Khuon Rith outlined the government''s two-pillar approach to judicial system reform for the 7th Legislature of the National Assembly: the first pillar is "dispute resolution within the court system," and the second is "dispute resolution outside the court system." During the ceremony, the Deputy Prime Minister specifically emphasized the following points to the attendees: 1. Enhancing Citizen Services: All judges, prosecutors, clerks, bailiffs, and court administrative officials must pay close attention to improving the quality and efficiency of justice services for the citizens. 2. Promoting Reforms: Actively and vigorously continue the two campaigns: one to accelerate case resolution in courts, and another to inspect and resolve irregularities within the courts, aiming for even better results. 3. Upholding Ethics and Responsibility: Maintain high ethical standards in performing duties. Handle cases meticulously, accurately, and justly, in accordance with existing laws and procedures. Exercise authority and discretion with high responsibility, adhering to the "ideal of justice" in seeking justice for the people. 4. Promoting 'Kuna-thepatai' (Rule by Virtue): The Ministry of Justice and the Supreme Council of Magistracy will continue to promote the implementation of the "Kuna-thepatai" principle in the justice sector. 5. Encouraging Mediation: Encourage mediation and reconciliation to resolve disputes between parties, for cases where the law permits such resolutions. These directives underscore the government's commitment to enhancing the transparency, efficiency, and public trust in Cambodia's judicial system.