T HE Cambodian People's Party will set up and run a new television and radio

station which some people fear may give them the upper hand in their power

struggle with Funcinpec, reports Khmer newspaper Reasmey Kampuchea.

The

Ministry of Information gave formal approval to the CPP's application to set up

the stations last weekend.

Ith Samtheng, chief of the CPP Cabinet office,

said: "The technicians have already prepared transmission equipment for

installation.

"However, we are still choosing the site for the stations,

but at this stage the party cabinet office is the preferred location, and the

plan is to set up very soon."

"We will be an alternative source of

information for the people which will benefit the development of the social

economy."

He added: "The TV and radio station would not use party

resources, but would be funded by a private local company called ABK"

He

declined to comment on the precise relationship between the party and ABK .