The Kampong Chhnang provincial administration has launched a formal investigation into the management of sub-national government funds across 71 communes. This initiative, led by a newly formed taskforce, follows an Interior Ministry probe into alleged financial misconduct and procurement irregularities.

Provincial Governor Sun Sovannarith confirmed that the taskforce will evaluate the conduct of civil servants, commune council members, and clerks involved in local development projects. While the investigation will encompass all communes in the province, it will specifically focus on five areas: Toek Hout in Rolea Ba’ier district, Melon in Boribor, Chorng Morng in Toek Phos, Sethei in Samakki Meanchey, and Longvek in Kampong Tralach.

The scrutiny follows public controversy surrounding the high cost of solar street lights, which were reportedly priced at approximately $2,000 each—a figure critics argue far exceeds the market rate of $160 to $200. In response to the findings in Toek Hout commune, Interior Minister Sar Sokha announced the demotion of two senior provincial officials: the directors of the Planning and Investment Department and the Inter-Sectoral Department.

Advertisement

Civil society representatives have welcomed the investigation but are calling for broader action. Mar Sophal of the NGO Forum warned that inflated pricing suggests a lack of transparency or potential collusion in the bidding process, noting that such practices erode public trust. San Chey, executive director of the Affiliated Network for Social Accountability, urged the government to conduct nationwide audits, suggesting that the issues identified in Kampong Chhnang may be indicative of systemic problems.

Governor Sovannarith stated that the administration will pursue legal action if further wrongdoing is uncovered. Meanwhile, the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) indicated that it is currently gathering information, though it declined to provide further details due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.

Source: CamboJA News