WWLegal.com :: Cambodia's New Appeals Court President Appointed

Cambodia's New Appeals Court President Appointed
Posted on Thursday, August 16, 2007 - 09:00 PM

You Bun Leng was sworn in as Cambodia's new president of the Appeals Court on Thursday, 16 August 2007.

This new position will allow me to have a critical role in reforming the legal and justice system in the exercises of new laws as well as civil and penal procedure codes which were recently passed by the National Assembly," said You Bun Leng.

He made these remarks at his swearing-in ceremony presided by head of the Supreme Court Dith Monti and attended by Justice Minister Ang Vong Vathana and former head of the Appeals Court Ly Vouch Leng.

"According to my experience as co-investigating judge at the Extraordinary Chamber in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) and judge of the Appeals Court, I can have more ability to join the reform of the legal and justice system which is the endurable priority of the country," he said.

At the same time, "my task as national co-investigating judge at ECCC is extremely important for my country and for humanity as a whole," he said.

"As long as ECCC considers my presence to be essential, it is my duty to continue, ensuring there is no interruption or delay in the process," he added.

Meanwhile, Ang Vong Vathana said at the ceremony that reform of the legal and justice system is one of Cambodian government's priorities to govern this country and ensure rule of law and equity of justice.

In accordance with the Cambodian law, You Bun Leng automatically became a member of the Supreme Council of the Magistracy which is headed by the king.

Ly Vouch Leng was replaced by You Bun Leng according to a royal decree signed by King Norodom Sihamoni on Aug. 9. The former one was reportedly involved in a scandal of receiving bribe in exchange for release of sentenced prisoners.

News